Faith is the thing that drives believers to live fulfilled and meaning lives. We reach some destinations because of the experience they offer, but we reach some because of what the journey there teaches us. The urge to walk in the footsteps of the divine drives these reverent pilrimages.

From retracing the steps of Jesus to capturing a glimpse of the Pope,  religious destinations intend to inspire and change our lives dramatically.

Jerusalem, Israel

Dubbed the "holiest place in the world" and the historical stomping grounds of Jesus Christ, Mohammed, King David, and others, the beauty of Jerusalem is nearly overshadowed by the sheer spiritual importance of its past. An important landmark for the world's three major religions, Jerusalem's place in history gives travelers of many faiths a deep sense of spirituality.  From the Via Doloros which retraces Jesus’ last steps that led to his crucifixion, to the sacred "Wailing Wall" of Hebrew faith, to the al-Aqsa mosque where Islamic faith holds that Mohammed ascended to heaven, Jerusalem's place in history makes it a marvel to visit.

Abu Dhabi, UAE

To bask in the purity of the city first-hand, travelers are advised to visit the Grand Mosque to see the elegance of Abu Dhabi come to life with glorious chandeliers, sparkling pools, and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet.  And while the overwhelming majority of worshippers in Abu Dhabi are Islamic, the country's famed respect for religious freedom has resulted in Christian churches and Jewish synagoguges existing peacefully among the many mosques.

Abu Dhabi is a city for spiritual seekers needing an unforgettable experience in the magic of a sacred destination. 

Vatican City (Holy See)

No spiritual retreat would be complete without venturing to the Vatican City, the home of the Pope.  Its roots date back even before Christianity, as a temple to the Phrygian goddess Cybele still stood as St. Peter's Basilica was being built. Today Vatican City is famed as the epicenter of the Catholic faith, and the destination for countless pilgrims every year.

Celebrating the old with historic architectonic structures rising in the midst of beautiful gardens, this destination offers an artistic Renaissance appeal, history and above all sanctity completely worthy of discovery.

Rishikesh, India

Known as the ‘Yoga Capital of the World’ Rishikesh was made famous in the 1960s by the Beatles when they visited the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.  Since then many visitors needing to stretch their limbs come to this small town amongst its lush gardens and peaceful ashrams – providing the perfect ambiance for meditation and seclusion from their busy schedules. 

Pursuers of yoga are also encouraged to try Hasya Yoga, therapeutic laughing therapy or honing their humming skills while finding their space in the beauty of the town’s natural surroundings. 

Tibet

Tibet comes as no surprise for travelers wanting to become more in tune with their spirituality, especially among the glorious cliffs of Mount Kailash.  Buddhists, Jains, Hindus and Bon worshippers gather along its hilly terrain to rid them of their sins and bring good fortune to their lives. 

Although none of these pilgrims dare to climb the mountain because they believe that ascending the mountain results in death, it is hard to resist Kailash’s charm which exploded in ancient legends, historical treasures and divine merit.

Echoing the whispers of prayers preserving the footprints of its avid worshippers, this holy mountain is one of Tibet’s most mystical treasures. 

Rome, Italy

Rome is known for its antiquities but it is also a destination driven by its faith-based attractions.  The Eternal City has been a sacred destination spot for centuries and continues to lure travelers with its homage to Roman Catholicism.

Take a trip through the history of many faiths as you visit the Coliseum, the Basilica of St. John Lateran, San Pietro in Vincoli, the Pantheon, and the Arch of Constantine. All share a piece of the sanctity that envelopes Rome. This rich history makes Rome one of the most rewarding experiences for travelers craving a purifying adventure.

Egypt

Since days lost to history, days that predate in fact predate history, Egypt has always been a country dominated by its people’s religious beliefs. This country has stood as history built around it, and this can be seen interwoven with social behaviors.  As one of the world’s oldest civilizations its mystical treasures are elaborately showcased through its landscape, presented in the form of symbolic landmarks preserving the memories of Egyptian Pharaohs and royalty.

With such exquisite roots in religion, you cannot escape the sanctity that overshadows Cairo’s mosques or the holiness of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Christians.  As a place that has always favored religious expression, Egypt remains one of the world’s most intriguing places in both the ancient and modern world.

Tokyo, Japan

Draped in beautiful temples and shrines honoring the spirits of its ancestors and Buddhist practices, Japan uniquely guides its tourists on a spiritual journey to the past.

Especially, at the Meiji Shrine (Asakusa Kannon Temple), which is a much-admired Buddhist temple, where many spectators migrate to stroll through its grand halls in amazement.  This colorful sanctuary is hard to miss and will change your complete state of mind once you are in its grand presence.

If you are looking for a healing experience with a bit of culture, let the Meiji Shrine be your guide to enlightenment. 

Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Built on the foundation of the Prophet Muhammad, Mecca is the heart of the Islamic culture and a haven where the medicinal waters of the Zam Zam flow through the city.  It is also the home to the Great Mosque where millions of worshippers congregate along sacrificial pilgrimages.

When it comes to finding your place in one of the richest cities, blessed in the fragrances of the past, Mecca is your... well, mecca.

Mexico City

It may seem odd to see a new-world city on this list, but Mexico City, Home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, is as divine as it cultural.  Here, its sanctuary draws thousands of people all wanting to grasp the holiness sitting inside its grand doors.  It is also hosts to over 20 masses a year and completely surrounded by a plethora of chapels that strongly showcase the sanctity of the Basilica. 

Built near the hill where Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin received a vision of the Lady of Guadalupe, the Basilica has become a major attraction for Catholic pilgrims and a breathtaking site of new-world faith.