10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (2023)

When there are 193 vastly different countries, it seems almost impossible to narrow down a list of the most beautiful countries in the world.

Beauty is subjective. Though it lies in the eye of the beholder, and some of us may love snow-capped mountains over ultra-modern skyscrapers, or crystal-clear oceans over historic buildings, some locations are just awe-inspiring enough that many of us can agree to be the most beautiful countries in the world.

But do they make great places to study at?

Benefits of studying in the most beautiful countries in the world

Studying abroad is not only an opportunity to get a superior education in a foreign land but also a chance to live in a different culture and environment.

You can get these in a lot of countries — but studying in the most beautiful countries in the world offers comes with special perks. These include:

“Nature is not like a pill you get prescribed by your doctor that you have to take in small doses every day,” said Dr. Mathew P. White, an environmental psychologist at the University of Exeter Medical School, to The New York Times.

“What matters most is that you’re able to fit it into your lifestyle.”

And in the most beautiful countries in the world, you can fit being healthy, mentally and physically, and feeling great while getting a good education.

10 most beautiful countries in the world:

Below is a list of 10 countries chosen for having both exceptional and breathtaking natural landscapes and some of the best universities in the world.

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (1)

As seen in the “Lord of the Rings” trilogy and sworn by anyone who’s visited, New Zealand is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Source: William West/AFP

1. New Zealand

From its 9,000 miles of breezy shores to its turquoise lakes cutting through mountains, New Zealand boasts some of the most intriguing landscapes in the world.

Lake Tekapo may just be one of the most colourful places in the world, with brilliant blue glacial waters and never-ending fields of pink and purple lupins.

New Zealand’s also bursting with a plethora of galleries and museums contributing to the country’s cultural and artistic identity. The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa highlights the rich history of the Māori people and their importance to the national identity of New Zealand.

It is no wonder that US News ranked New Zealand the most beautiful country in the world. If you want to further your studies here, the country is home to many top universities. This includes:

  • The University of Auckland
  • University of Otago
  • Victoria University of Wellington

2. Greece

Greece’s islands and islets exude an enchanting atmosphere of whimsical charm and awe-inspiring beauty.

They are home to the world-renowned beaches of Mykonos and the Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, which boast crystal-clear waters that have earned them the ranking of the second most beautiful country in the world according to US News.

While these coastal paradises are often the first images that come to mind when considering Greece, the country has much more to offer.

Greece offers quality education for international students looking to study abroad. Intrigued? Pick from three of the best universities in the country:

  • University of Crete
  • National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
  • Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

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Sunset or not, the village of Manarola in the “Cinque Terre” glows ethereally all day long. Source: Olivier Morin/AFP

3. Italy

Italy is highly acclaimed for its otherworldly pastas, picturesque pastel villages, and stunning — yet fragile — architecture like the Duomo Cathedral in Milan.

While these dazzle, so do its world heritage sites, the most in the world. These include Padua’s Botanical Gardens and Cinque Terre, i.e. five villages perched on a hillside looking like they’ve been painted by Caravaggio.

Close to these places of beauty are universities, where international students need not haveextensive knowledge of Italian making it accessible to students from different backgrounds.

Below are the top universities you can earn your degree at while indulging in pizza and gelato and the top universities in Italy:

  • University of Padua
  • University of Bologna
  • Sapienza University Rome

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (3)

The 4506 meters high Weisshorn mountain is surrounded by gusts of wind in the Swiss Alps prior to the start of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on February 26, 2022. Source: Photo by Fabrice Coffrini/AFP

4. Switzerland

Switzerland has long been known as a winter wonderland, attracting tourists from all around the world. However, its beauty extends beyond the winter season. During the warmer months, the country has lush valleys and shimmering emerald lakes.

Then there are the majestic mountain ranges, boundless horizons, and cascading waterfalls.

Lord Byron describes Switzerland’s Lauterbrunnen Valley in a journal entry from 1816 having “entered upon a range of scenes beyond all description, or previous conception.”

Want to earn your degree while studying in one of the most beautiful countries in the world? Here are the top universities in Switzerland to consider:

  • ETH Zurich
  • University of Zurich
  • Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (4)

People sit on a terrace-cafe in front of La Concha bay at sunset on December 17, 2022 in the Spanish Basque city of San Sebastian. Source: Ander Gillenea/AFP

5. Spain

Spain is perhaps the most exceptionally diverse country globally, offering many experiences, from charming white Mediterranean villages to sophisticated urban centres.

This captivating country is also known for its rich cultural heritage, historical festivals, siestas, and mesmerising flamenco dancers.

However, Spain has much more to offer. It boasts fantastic hiking trails that span the entire nation, stunning beaches catering to all types of beachgoers, and an endless variety of delectable jamón serrano.

What could be better than all that? Enjoy all of this and more when you choose to study at one of the top universities in Spain:

  • University of Barcelona
  • Autonomous University of Barcelona
  • Pompeu Fabra University

6. Japan

Japan presents students with a captivating and culturally rich environment, showcasing beautiful architecture, state-of-the-art technological innovations and delicious sushi.

These are juxtaposed against ultra modern conveniences — like the bullet train and robot waiters as well as historical treasures, as nearly every city is adorned with ancient Buddhist temples.

Yet, it all works together.

This harmonious blend ensures that whether you are a fan of contemporary manga or hold a fascination for the ancient ways of the samurai, Japan offers something that caters to your interests and passions.

Choose from one of the best universities in Japan to study as you explore the country’s beauty:

  • University of Tokyo
  • Kyoto University
  • Osaka University

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (5)

A photo taken on September 22, 2014, shows fish swimming through the coral on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Source: William West/AFP

7. Australia

With its enticing opportunities for snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking adventures in the vast outback, and exploration of the city of Sydney, Australia is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations for travellers.

Students are drawn to its universities, which offera wide range of majors such as business, humanities, and the sciences.

During breaks, one can bask in the sun, explore fascinating wildlife, and enjoy the pristine waters of Bondi Beach.

Choose from one of these world-class universities to study in one of the most beautiful countries in the world:

  • University of Melbourne
  • University of Sydney
  • University of Queensland

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at (6)

Tourists ride elephants on a beach on Thailand’s island of Koh Chang, on April 9, 2023. Source: Jack Taylor/AFP

8. Thailand

This beautiful country offers a diverse range of attractions, from pristine coastal stretches to the lush forests of Koh Kood and the bustling city of Bangkok.

Frequently listed among the most beautiful countries in the world and featured as a top 10 must-visit destination, Thailand boasts world-class beach towns, including Krabi, Phi Phi Island, Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Pha Ngan.

However, Thailand is more than just a country to visit on holiday. The country offers quality education programmes for international students looking to study abroad in Asia.

Here are some of the top universities in the country:

  • Mahidol University
  • Chulalongkorn University
  • Chiang Mai University

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Sunset seen from a stretch of the BR-230 (Transamazon highway) in Labrea, Amazonas State, Brazil, on September 16, 2022. Source: Michael Dantas/AFP

9. Brazil

Brazil is blessed with both remarkable natural beauty and contrasting urban landscapes. It is home to one of the world’s most stunning cities, Rio de Janeiro.

However, Brazil’s true treasures lie in its abundant natural wonders. The sheer magnitude of the Amazon rainforest is beyond comprehension, and the horseshoe-shaped Iguaçu Falls, often adorned by vibrant rainbows, stand as one of the most awe-inspiring sights on the planet.

The Amazon rainforest is also a sanctuary for remarkable species such as jaguars, woolly spider monkeys, ocelots, piranhas, giant water lilies, and mangroves.

The country’s world-class institutions include:

  • Universidade de Sao Paulo
  • Universidade Estadual de Campinas
  • Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro

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A view of Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world called by locals The Potholes, and South Africa’s rightful claim as one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Source: Alexander Joe/AFP

10. South Africa

The country is home to an extraordinary diversity of landscapes, ranging from the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon to the majestic peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains.

Known for its iconic safari destinations, South Africa offers a blend of superb weather, stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and a rich tapestry of cultures.

The country boasts a multitude of beautiful sights in every province. Marvel at the vibrant displays of wildflowers in Namaqualand, explore the dramatic heights of the Drakensberg Mountains, indulge in the wine-growing valleys of the Western Cape, witness penguins roaming on pristine beaches, the grandeur of the Blyde River Canyon, and ascend the iconic Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.

Interested? You can enjoy the beauty of South Africa as you study at one of its top universities:

  • University of Cape Town
  • University of Witwatersrand
  • Stellenbosch University

FAQs

10 most beautiful countries in the world every student should go to uni at? ›

1. Indonesia. Indonesia, with more than 17,000 islands, has a natural beauty score of 7.77 out of 10 and sits at the top of the list as the most beautiful country in the world.

What is the 10 most beautiful country in the world? ›

  • New Zealand. #1 in Scenic. #11 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Greece. #2 in Scenic. #25 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Italy. #3 in Scenic. #14 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Switzerland. #4 in Scenic. #1 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Spain. #5 in Scenic. #16 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Norway. #6 in Scenic. ...
  • Australia. #7 in Scenic. ...
  • Ireland. #8 in Scenic.

Which country is the most beautiful country in the world 2023? ›

1. Indonesia. Indonesia, with more than 17,000 islands, has a natural beauty score of 7.77 out of 10 and sits at the top of the list as the most beautiful country in the world.

What is the most beautiful country in the world to travel to? ›

Italy is truly the world's most beautiful country. It flaunts the most inspiring cultural treasures and magnificent scenery, which you cannot find anywhere in the world. Venice, Florence and Rome with their diverse architecture, Tuscany with its rolling hills, vineyards and snow-peaked mountains will mesmerize you.

Is USA the most beautiful country? ›

Despite its long Pacific and Atlantic coastlines, as well as its myriad natural attractions and national parks ranging from the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone, the United States didn't make it into the top 10. With a score of 6.04 out of 10, the country ranks number 12.

Who is beautiful girl in the world? ›

The most beautiful woman in the world is Jodie Comer, a well-known British actress who tops the list. Her face was 94.52% accurate according to the ratio.

What are 3 good countries to visit? ›

  • Italy. #1 in Good for tourism. #14 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Spain. #2 in Good for tourism. #16 in Best Countries Overall. ...
  • Australia. #3 in Good for tourism. ...
  • France. #4 in Good for tourism. ...
  • Greece. #5 in Good for tourism. ...
  • Switzerland. #6 in Good for tourism. ...
  • New Zealand. #7 in Good for tourism. ...
  • Thailand. #8 in Good for tourism.

What country has the nicest people? ›

Here below is the list of the friendliest countries in the world.
  • Australia. Australia offers something that one may cherish all through his life. ...
  • New Zealand. Everything from a citizen of New Zealand is delivered with smile. ...
  • South Africa. ...
  • Canada. ...
  • Thailand. ...
  • Scotland. ...
  • Ireland. ...
  • Fiji.

What is the number 1 beautiful state in USA? ›

Home to nine national parks (more parks than any other state in the country), California is undoubtedly the most beautiful state in America for natural wonders. From sandy beaches drenched in sunlight to majestic granite mountains, arid desert landscapes and the tallest trees in the world, California has it all.

Is USA number 1 country? ›

The United States is the world's third-largest country by both land and total area. It shares land borders with Canada to its north and with Mexico to its south and has maritime borders with the Bahamas, Cuba, Russia, and other nations.

Which nationality has the most beautiful woman? ›

Sweden. The stunning Scandinavian nation of Sweden is known for surreal forests, coastal islands, glittering lakes and glacial mountains. It is also known for being home to the most beautiful women in the world. With complete elegance, sporty charm and passionately deep eyes, women of Sweden are perfect beauties.

Which continent is most beautiful? ›

Home to the most spectacular landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and vibrant cultures, South America is the most exciting continent on earth. From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest, this fascinating, diverse continent has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries.

How long does a pretty girl live? ›

Then the researchers looked at the death records of those same folks. Men who had been rated as attractive lived an average of 76 years. But those on the lowest rung averaged only 69. The most attractive women lived to an average age of 76, three more than those who weren't rated as all that hot.

What makes a girl pretty? ›

According to science, men find women more attractive when they are smart, intelligent, caring, confident, humorous, kind, independent, and supportive. Although these qualities may generally apply, what one man may find the most attractive may differ from another.

Where is the prettiest place to live in the US? ›

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is by far one of the most beautiful cities in the US. Pastel-painted houses line the cobblestone streets, while colossal oak trees with Spanish moss set the scene. One of the biggest allures of this city is that it's very compact and easy to explore on foot.

What is the coolest place on Earth? ›

The Eastern Antarctic Plateau claims the title of coldest place on Earth. Between 2004 and 2016, satellite data collected across Dome Argus and Dome Fuji, an area around the size of Australia, suggest that air temperatures could be around -94°C.

What is the cheapest country to visit? ›

The 10 Cheapest Countries to Visit
  1. Laos. Average daily cost: $15.
  2. Turkey. Average daily cost: $23. ...
  3. Indonesia. Average daily cost: $47. ...
  4. Thailand. Average daily cost: $52. ...
  5. Hungary. Average daily cost: $70. ...
  6. Costa Rica. Average daily cost: $81. ...
  7. Mexico. Average daily cost: $93. ...
  8. Dominican Republic. Average daily cost: $110. ...

What are the safest countries in the world? ›

Top 20 safest countries in the world as of 2023
  • Slovakia. Global Peace Index: 1.499.
  • Bhutan. Global Peace Index: 1.481.
  • Malaysia. (Photo by Stanley Chou/Getty Images) ...
  • Norway. Global Peace Index: 1.465.
  • Germany. (Photo by PETER KNEFFEL/dpa/AFP via Getty Images) ...
  • Croatia. (BRANIMIR BOBAN/AFP via Getty Images) ...
  • Finland. ...
  • Hungary.
2 days ago

Which country is the friendliest to Americans? ›

The United Kingdom, or the U.K., is one of the friendliest countries when it comes to Americans. Its capital London is a global city and the country has a historic past courtesy of its Royal Family.

Who are the nicest people in the US? ›

1. Minnesota. The term “Minnesota nice” lives up to its name. Minnesota residents are known for being extra polite, even during the state's cold, bitter winters.

Who are the friendliest people on earth? ›

French Polynesia. The friendliest country in the world according to you, our readers, is French Polynesia, a collection of more than 100 islands in the South Pacific.

What city is the cleanest in the world? ›

Calgary, Canada

This city in western Canada is relatively free of tourists. Yet, it boasts the distinction of being THE cleanest city in the world. Calgary has invested in a top-of-the-range wastewater purification system and in drastically reducing the amount of landfill waste.

What is the most expensive city in the world? ›

The Julius Baer Lifestyle Index, which ranks the world's most expensive cities annually, finds that Asia is the costliest region for luxury living, with Singapore ranking as the world's most expensive city. This year, it surpassed Shanghai, the No. 1 city in 2022.

What city in America has the most beautiful people? ›

Yes, the No. 1 city for attractive people is ... (drum roll) ... Miami. In fact, the Floridian city has become very comfortable wearing this crown — it's the third year in a row Miami has topped the category.

Where does US rank in education? ›

The U.S. ranks 14th among 37 OECD and G20 countries in the percentage of 25-34 year- olds with higher education, at 42% - above the OECD average (38%), but far behind the leader, Korea (65%) (Chart A1.

What is the most exciting state in the US? ›

At the top of the list is California, which had an overall score of 64.56, and ranked first in entertainment and recreation and fourth in nightlife. According to WalletHub, the Golden State has the most restaurants, movie theaters, and fitness centers per capita.

Which state is the finest state in USA? ›

Alaska. Grandiose snow-covered mountains, dramatic fjords, aquamarine glaciers, and pure, untouched wilderness that stretches to infinity – Alaska is like nowhere else in the United States.

Which country is the richest? ›

Here is the full ranking of the richest countries in 2023, according to their per capita GDP. Luxembourg, one of the smallest countries in the EU has a population of 634,000 and is the richest country in this ranking with a per capita GDP of nearly $130,000.

What country has the best education? ›

World Education Rankings
#CountryEducation Index
1Germany0.94
2Finland0.93
3Iceland0.93
4New Zealand0.93
97 more rows

What is the US rank in quality of life? ›

Quality of Life Index by Country 2023 Mid-Year
RankCountryQuality of Life Index
14Sweden174.8
15United Arab Emirates173.8
16United States173.0
17New Zealand170.9
80 more rows

Which country has most beautiful girls? ›

Sweden. The stunning Scandinavian nation of Sweden is known for surreal forests, coastal islands, glittering lakes and glacial mountains. It is also known for being home to the most beautiful women in the world. With complete elegance, sporty charm and passionately deep eyes, women of Sweden are perfect beauties.

What is the 13th most beautiful country in the world? ›

Download Table Data
CountryRough GuidesRanker
Iceland133
India16
Indonesia17
Ireland
50 more rows

Which are the 7 largest countries in the world? ›

Which are the Top 10 Largest Countries of the World?
  • Russia: Russia is the largest country in terms of area. ...
  • Canada: Canada is the second largest country in the world. ...
  • China: China is the third largest country and is part of the Asiatic landmass. ...
  • United States of America: ...
  • Brazil: ...
  • Australia: ...
  • India: ...
  • Argentina:

What country is the safest? ›

Iceland. Iceland is the safest country in the world, yet again, according to the latest Global Peace Index data. The index is comprised of a variety of factors, including the number of homicides, the level of violent crime, and the availability of small arms.

Which country has beautiful eyes? ›

Women of Scandinavia have known for their beautiful looks amongst which their eyes contribute generously.

Which country has the most beautiful skin? ›

If you want to look young and have a great complexion, adapt a lifestyle similar to Japanese women who are known for having smooth, clear and youthful skin. Many Japanese women maintain a diet rich in vitamins and minerals that contain antioxidants.

Which country has more female than male? ›

Worldwide, the male population is slightly higher than the female population, although this varies by country. As of 2021, the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong, under the control of China, has the highest share of women worldwide with 54.2 percent. Curacao followed directly with 54 percent.

What is the first country in the world? ›

Using a different criterion, here are the nations World Population Review lists as the oldest in the world according to their respective dates of self-sovereignty: Japan - 660 BCE. China - 221 BCE. San Marino - 301 CE.

Which continent has the most beauty? ›

Home to the most spectacular landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and vibrant cultures, South America is the most exciting continent on earth. From the soaring peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest, this fascinating, diverse continent has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries.

What is the No 1 largest country in the world? ›

Russia is the largest country by far, with a total area of about 17 million square kilometers.

What is the world smallest country? ›

The smallest country in the world is Vatican City, with a landmass of just 0.49 square kilometers (0.19 square miles). Vatican City is an independent state surrounded by Rome.

What is the number 1 biggest country in the world? ›

The largest country in the world is Russia with a total area of 17,098,242 Km² (6,601,665 mi²) and a land area of 16,376,870 Km² (6,323,142 mi²), equivalent to 11% of the total world's landmass of 148,940,000 Km² (57,510,000 square miles).

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