Do you consider yourself a garden aficionado, or a botanophile, or even a horti-tourist (someone who travels to visit gardens and botanical sites)? If so, then this post is for you. An immaculately-designed garden is like combining artistry with the best of nature. Public gardens around the world serve as living expressions of a nation's identity, blending history, culture, and natural beauty into breathtaking landscapes.
Several countries also have Royal Botanic Gardens that showcase biodiversity—an extensive collection of flora and fauna while preserving rare and exotic plant species for future generations. This post will explore both—a luxury travel itinerary of 20 of the most beautiful gardens around the world, including the best botanical gardens.
Top 20 Royal Botanic Gardens
After extensive research, we've nailed down our top 20 list of the most beautiful gardens throughout the world:
1. Kew Gardens - London, England
Let's kick it off with arguably the most world-famous garden—Kew Gardens. Located in southwest London, Kew Gardens is one of the world’s most significant botanical institutions, known for its formal gardens, extensive plant collections and groundbreaking research in conservation and biodiversity. Established in 1759, it has grown into a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 330 acres and housing over 50,000 plant species from across the globe.
The gardens are home to iconic structures such as the Victorian-era Palm House, the Temperate House (the world’s largest surviving Victorian glasshouse), and the Treetop Walkway, offering visitors a unique perspective of the lush canopy. Kew Gardens is also famous for its rose garden designed in the early 20th century (and later expanded), which features over 170 varieties of roses.
2. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden - Tokyo, Japan
In the throng of the megalopolis that is Tokyo, finding a vast, serene park amongst the concrete jungle is more than welcoming. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden seamlessly blends traditional Japanese, English, and French garden styles. Its peaceful ambiance, complemented by picturesque ponds, meandering walking paths, and an abundance of cherry blossoms in the spring, makes it one of Tokyo's most beloved retreats. The best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing is from late March to early April, when the garden transforms into a breathtaking sea of soft pink petals.
3. Butchart Gardens - Vancouver Island, Canada
Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island are a world-renowned horticultural masterpiece with a history dating back to the early 20th century. The gardens were originally the site of a limestone quarry owned by Robert Pim Butchart, and when the quarry was exhausted in 1909, his wife, Jennie Butchart, took it upon herself to transform the barren landscape into a lush, vibrant garden. Over the decades, the Butchart family turned the gardens into one of the most beloved botanical attractions in North America. Even today, it remains family-run and is designated a National Historic Site of Canada.
The gardens are divided by themed trails, including a Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Mediterranean, Italian Gardens and more. But perhaps the piece de resistance is The Sunken Garden, from the original transformation from the quarry, which features terraced flower beds, winding pathways, and a dramatic viewing point.
4. Gardens by the Bay — Singapore
While the Singapore Botanic Gardens celebrate more than 160 years of botanical heritage, Gardens by the Bay represents Singapore’s futuristic vision of green spaces. This world-renowned garden complex is famous for its towering Supertree structures, which light up spectacularly at night, and its climate-controlled two conservatories — the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest — showcasing exotic plants and rare blooms from around the world.
Set against the backdrop of the Marina Bay skyline, it’s a perfect complement to the historic Singapore Botanic Gardens, blending nature, innovation, and architectural wonder.
5. Villa del Balbianello Gardens - Lake Como, Italy
If you think the above looks familiar it's because you've likely seen these gardens on screen. There’s a reason why Villa del Balbianello was used as a set for both James Bond: Casino Royale and Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones — it’s simply cinematic in its beauty. Perched on a wooded promontory that juts dramatically into Lake Como, this 18th-century villa is surrounded by exquisitely manicured terraced gardens, statues, and archways overlooking the water.
Strolling through this luxury travel destination's cypress-lined pathways feels like stepping onto a film set, with panoramic views at every turn. Whether you're a movie buff or simply seeking breathtaking scenery and immaculate gardens, Villa del Balbianello is pure magic.
6. The Desert Botanical Garden - Arizona, USA
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, is like an oasis showcasing the unique beauty of desert flora in the USA. The largest garden on this list, it spans 140 acres and features over 50,000 desert plants, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers, many of which are native to the Sonoran Desert.
Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, from the cactus and succulent gardens to the wildflower and agave (made to distill tequila) gardens, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of the desert. The Desert Botanical Garden is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and those fascinated by desert flora.
7. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - Cape Town, South Africa
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town is one of the most renowned botanical gardens in the world, known for its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity. Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, it covers 528 hectares and is home to a vast array of indigenous South African plants, including many species of proteas, fynbos, and other unique flora to the area.
Established in 1913, Kirstenbosch has a strong conservation focus, with various areas dedicated to preserving native plants and showcasing the country's rich botanical heritage. But what really cements Kirstenbosch a place on this list is its stunning setting with the backdrop of the iconic Table Mountain. For hiking enthusiasts, you can follow a path through Kirstenbosch onto the challenging Skelton Gorge hike up Table Mountain.
8. Claude Monet's Garden - Giverny, France
Claude Monet’s Garden in Giverny, France, is a masterpiece of horticultural artistry, immortalized in the impressionist painter’s most famous works. This is where art and nature literally come together. Designed and cultivated by Monet himself, the garden is divided into two sections: the Clos Normand, a vibrant flower garden with geometric flower beds bursting with seasonal blooms, and the Water Garden, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, featuring the iconic lily pond and the green wooden bridge draped in wisteria.
These gardens served as Monet’s living canvas, inspiring some of his most celebrated paintings, including his renowned Water Lilies series. Today, both horti-tourists and art enthusiasts alike can stroll through the same enchanting landscapes that fueled Monet’s artistic vision.
9. Sydney Botanical Gardens - Sydney, Australia
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a stunning oasis in the heart of Australia’s most famous city, offering an aesthetic blend of nature and iconic scenery. While Melbourne's botanic gardens are equally impressive, Sydney’s stand out for their breathtaking location on the edge of Sydney Harbour, with panoramic views of the Opera House (one of the Architectural Wonders of the World) and Harbour Bridge. Established in 1816, it is the country’s oldest botanical science institution, home to an incredible collection of native and exotic plant species. You can wander through themed gardens, explore the lush tropical plants of Palm Grove, and take in the vibrant displays of the Calyx (one of the largest green walls in the southern hemisphere), all while enjoying one of the most picturesque settings in the world.
10. Keukenhof Gardens - Lisse, Netherlands
Here's one for flower lovers—known as the "Garden of Europe," Keukenhof is one of the world’s prettiest flower gardens. The Dutch are known for their love of tulips (so much so that they were even treated as currency for a period of time), and here you will see them on full display. Located in Lisse, the world's largest flower gardens burst into color every spring with over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths arranged in stunning, artistic displays.
You can wander through themed gardens, serene ponds, and winding paths, all set against a classic Dutch landscape of windmills and canals. This is especially a great experience for traveling families, as you can hire bikes to explore the gardens on bike paths. Open for only a few weeks each year —aim for mid-March and mid-May—Keukenhof is a must-visit for flower lovers, families and photographers seeking the ultimate spring flowers spectacle.
11. Quinta da Regaleira Gardens - Sintra, Portugal
Quinta da Regaleira Gardens (Sintra) — Visiting these gardens feels like stepping onto the set of a Guillermo del Toro fantasy film. Twisting stone staircases lead you into secret tunnels, enchanting grottos, and the famous Initiation Well — a spiraling, moss-covered descent that looks like it could transport you to another realm. All around, ornate towers, mystical symbols, and hidden passages are nestled in lush, overgrown greenery. The entire estate is filled with whimsy and mystery, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Manueline styles into a dreamlike world that stirs the imagination.
12. Jardin Exotique de Monaco - Monte Carlo, Monaco
Perched on a cliffside overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the French Riviera, the stunning Jardin Exotique de Monaco botanical garden is home to a vast collection of rare succulents and cacti from around the world. Opened in 1933, it showcases plants that thrive in arid climates, with terraced paths winding up and down the cliff offering breathtaking panoramic views of Monaco and the Mediterranean. What really gives the gardens the X-factor and cements a place on this list is they also feature a prehistoric cave system, adding to its unique charm and appeal.
13. Monte Palace Tropical Garden - Madeira Island, Portugal
Perched high above the city with sweeping views of Funchal Bay, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a lush paradise filled with exotic plants from around the world. Your adventure starts with a scenic cable car from the city center up to the village of Monte, where the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located. From there, winding pathways lead you through vibrant collections of cycads, azaleas, and orchids, alongside koi-filled ponds and elegant water features.
The garden is also adorned with ornate tile panels, sculptures, and a Japanese-inspired section complete with red bridges and pagodas. It's this combination of tropical flora, serene water elements, artistic touches, and postcard views that make it one of Madeira’s most enchanting spots.
14. Schynige Platte Alpine Garden - Swiss Alps, Switzerland
One of the most famous gardens in Switzerland is the Schynige Platte Alpine Garden. Perched at 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) in the Bernese Oberland, this botanical garden showcases over 700 species of native alpine plants, all set against a stunning backdrop of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains.
You can explore winding paths lined with colorful wildflowers, learn about the region’s unique flora, all the while enjoying panoramic views of the fairytale-like Swiss Alps. The garden is best visited in summer when the alpine blooms are at their peak, creating a spectacular natural display. However, we suggest starting your hike at the crack of dawn-- not only will it be cooler than later in the day, but you'll avoid the crowds.
15. Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden - Pattaya, Thailand
Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden in Pattaya is one of Thailand’s most spectacular horticultural attractions. Originally established as a fruit plantation, it was transformed into an expansive botanical garden spanning over 500 acres of lush landscapes showcasing a diverse collection of tropical plants from around the world.
One of the more unique gardens on the list, Nong Nooch has a quirky and whimsical charm that sets it apart from traditional botanical gardens. Scattered among the lush greenery, you will find life-sized animals and even dinosaur sculptures peeking through the foliage, creating a playful, prehistoric atmosphere. Adding to its eccentric appeal is a replica of Stonehenge, where neatly arranged stone monoliths stand in stark contrast to the surrounding immaculately manicured hedges and tropical landscape.
Beyond its botanical wonders, Nong Nooch is an immersive cultural experience. Daily performances showcase Thai traditions, including classical dance, martial arts demonstrations, and elephant shows.
16. Jardim Botânico - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Nestled at the foot of Corcovado Mountain, with Christ the Redeemer watching over it, Jardim Botânico is a lush Amazon jungle-like paradise showcasing over 6,500 species of plants. Established in 1808, this rainforest botanical garden features towering imperial palm trees, tranquil lily ponds, and a beautifully preserved Japanese garden.
You can wander shaded pathways lined with orchids and bromeliads and, if you're lucky, spot playful monkeys in the trees-- all while taking in breathtaking views of Rio’s dramatic, tropical landscape. For those game enough (and fit), you can hike the trail starting from Jardim Botânico to Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, one of the most scenic day hikes in the world.
17. Powerscourt Gardens - County Wicklow, Ireland
Often hailed as one of the finest gardens in the world, Powerscourt is a masterclass in design and grandeur. Originally laid out in the 18th century and further refined over generations, the gardens stretch across 47 acres of immaculate terraces, secret pathways, and ornamental lakes.
What makes Powerscourt truly magical is its setting — sweeping views over the Wicklow Mountains and the Sugarloaf Peak form a dramatic natural backdrop. Fountains, statues, and perfectly curated flowerbeds add to the sense of elegance, while the gentle sound of water and birdsong completes the atmosphere.
18. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden - Big Island, Hawaii, USA
Set on the lush Hamakua Coast, this stunning garden is a paradise for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spread across 20 acres of dense tropical rainforest, it showcases over 2,000 species of exotic plants, vibrant orchids, towering palms, and colorful bromeliads all along the dramatic coastline.
You can stroll for hours along the scenic walking paths leading you through serene streams and past cascading waterfalls, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Often described as a living museum of tropical plants, the garden is both a botanical treasure and a peaceful retreat into nature’s finest work.
19. Nan Lian Garden - Hong Kong, China
One of Hong Kong's best kept secrets is this beautifully landscaped classical Chinese garden in the middle of bustling Kowloon. It is a welcome escape into this Tang Dynasty-style oasis. The garden features perfectly manicured bonsai trees, serene lotus ponds, elegant pavilions, and stone pathways that wind through peaceful settings.
The golden Pavilion of Absolute Perfection, with its iconic red bridge as the centerpiece, offers a picture-perfect oasis in the heart of the city. What makes this tranquil escape truly stand out is how it's framed by dramatic city skyscrapers and nearby mountains, stunning a blend of nature, architecture, and artistry — a peaceful retreat that feels worlds away from the urban jungle.
20. Jardin Majorelle - Marrakech, Morocco
Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this gorgeous garden oasis combines classic Moroccan Art Deco architecture with exotic native plants, bubbling fountains, and peaceful pathways throughout. You will find cacti, bamboo groves, and palms sitting alongside vibrant bougainvillea and water lilies, and all set against striking cobalt blue walls.
The iconic blue building at the heart of the garden — once Majorelle’s painting studio — now houses the Berber Museum, celebrating the rich culture and artistry of Morocco’s indigenous people. It's a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech — a perfect blend of Moroccan culture, native gardens and artistic flair.
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