The Ultimate Cat Lover’s Bucket List: Must-Visit Feline Destinations

The Ultimate Cat Lover’s Bucket List: Must-Visit Feline Destinations

 

The Ultimate Cat Lover’s Bucket List: Must-Visit Feline Destinations

 


For devoted cat lovers, a true getaway isn’t complete unless it includes a healthy dose of feline fun. Whether it’s meeting famous internet cats, sipping coffee with purring companions, or visiting temples where cats reign supreme, the world is full of incredible destinations that celebrate our whiskered friends. Here’s the ultimate travel list for anyone who believes a trip is better with cats involved.

 

 

 

1. Aoshima Island, Japan – The Cat Island

 


Often dubbed “Cat Heaven on Earth,” Aoshima is home to more cats than people. This tiny island is a paradise for stray felines, where they roam freely, sunbathe on fishing boats, and pose for adoring tourists. Bring snacks (for the cats), and prepare for purr overload.

 

 

 

2. Tashirojima Island, Japan – The Other Cat Island

 


Nicknamed “Cat Island” as well, Tashirojima boasts a strong feline population and a cat shrine. Here, cats are considered good luck, and locals cherish them. You’ll even find cat-shaped cabins available for overnight stays.

 

 

 

3. Cat Cafés – Global Phenomenon

 


Cat cafés have popped up in cities worldwide, allowing visitors to sip lattes while petting adoptable rescue cats. Notable locations include:

 

  • Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium – London, UK

  • Neko no Niwa – Singapore

  • Meow Parlour – New York City, USA

  • Calico Cat Café – Tokyo, Japan

 


Each café offers a unique theme and ambiance, but all promise quality time with friendly felines.

 

 

 

4. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum – Key West, Florida

 


This historic home is not just a literary landmark—it’s also home to over 50 polydactyl (six-toed) cats, descendants of Hemingway’s original cat, Snow White. The cats freely roam the property and are lovingly cared for by staff.

 

 

 

5. Hermitage Museum Cats – St. Petersburg, Russia

 


Deep in the basement of this iconic art museum live dozens of working cats whose job is to keep the museum rodent-free. The Hermitage even hosts a “Cat Day” event to celebrate them. Visitors may catch a glimpse of these historic “art guardians” lounging near the galleries.

 

 

 

6. Gotokuji Temple – Tokyo, Japan

 


Often credited as the birthplace of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) figurine, Gotokuji Temple is a spiritual stop for cat lovers. Thousands of white cat statues with one raised paw line the temple grounds, making for a surreal and symbolic visit.

 

 

 

7. CatCon – Los Angeles, California

 


Often called “Comic-Con for cat people,” CatCon is the ultimate feline pop culture event. Attendees meet celebrity cats, explore cat-themed products, enjoy panels on cat care, and connect with a global community of fellow enthusiasts.

 

 

 

8. Kedi Film Tour – Istanbul, Turkey

 


While Istanbul itself is a haven for street cats—where locals care for them as part of the community—you can take a self-guided “Kedi” tour inspired by the documentary that captured their stories. Explore cafes, bookstores, and alleyways where these beloved cats live their best lives.

 

 

 

9. De Poezenboot (The Cat Boat) – Amsterdam, Netherlands

 


This floating cat sanctuary on a canal is both a shelter and a tourist attraction. Visitors can interact with adoptable cats in a cozy, houseboat setting while supporting a great cause.

 

 

 

10. The Cat Museum – Kuching, Malaysia

 


This quirky museum in the city of Kuching (which literally means “cat” in Malay) showcases everything cat-related—from folklore and photos to famous cartoon characters. It’s a must-visit for any serious cat connoisseur.

 

 

 

Honorable Mentions:

 

 

  • Félicette Street Art in Paris – A tribute to the first cat in space

  • Catskills, NY – Explore cat-themed shops and nature trails

  • Rome, Italy – Visit the Largo di Torre Argentina, a Roman ruin inhabited by stray cats and run by volunteers

 

 

 

 

Plan Your Purr-fect Adventure

 


Whether you’re looking for sacred symbolism, modern cat culture, or a relaxing purr session over coffee, there’s a feline destination waiting to be explored. Start checking off this bucket list and celebrate the joy of cats around the world.

 

 

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