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UNESCO launches new travel platform ‘World Heritage Journeys’ to promote sustainable tourism in the EU

World Heritage Journeys of Europe

Go deeper into European culture and history and get inspired for your next trip through UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in the European Union.

Together with National Geographic and co-funded by the European Union, the World Heritage Journeys of Europe let you discover the most stunning, mysterious, and beautiful heritage sites in Europe. From the 350 World Heritage Sites across the European Union, we handpicked 34 for you to explore in-depth. Immerse yourself in the places that embody Europe’s ancient history, let yourself flow through romantic moments and legends from the European past, feel like a true royal and visit castles, gardens, and palaces of Europe’s heritage, or go even deeper and find out what life and culture awaits you in the hidden underground depths of Europe.

We encourage you to travel differently, and travel deeper. Start exploring now!

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• UNESCO Office in Brussels
• SDG: SDG 11 - Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable

This article is related to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals .

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Responsible Traveler’s Guide to Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites Sustainably

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on June 29th, 2023 at 02:44 pm

UNESCO World Heritage Site Bamberg, Germany

This responsible traveler’s guide to visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites sustainably is a long and thorough (but not exhaustive) exploration of the nuances of travel’s impacts on World Heritage, and actionable steps for sustainable World Heritage travel. Please make sure you pin this site, bookmark it, and share it with your friends so you always have it handy as a tool to help us save travel from harmful behaviors.

• Don’t miss my guide to sustainable ecotourism – which, similar to this post, explores the good and the bad and how we can ensure ecotourism benefits our destinations.
• Curious about tourism leakage? This concept shows up repeatedly in this post – so make sure you are familiar with it, by reading this guide to tourism leakage.

What We’re Covering

What is UNESCO?

Most Pressing Threats to UNESCO

How Tourism Can Have a Positive Impact

17 Sustainable Tips for UNESCO Sites

Share and Discuss

• UNESCO World Heritage sites and status honor Earth’s most precious cultural and natural wonders.
• Visiting these sites and experiencing the customs is a great way to engage in sustainable tourism.
• However, many of these sites are buckling under pressure from numerous threats, including unsustainable and mismanaged tourism.
• It is critical for travelers to understand the impacts of tourism for responsible tourism at UNESCO sites.
• If we don’t take action, we may undermine World Heritage goals and destroy the very reason we love to travel.

What is UNESCO World Heritage?

During an international treaty in the 70s, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared its commitment to protecting and preserving outstanding cultural and natural heritage. The UN gives status to the things and places that make our planet so special, such as landmarks, natural landscapes, historic towns, traditional song and dance, architecture, and more. Humanity’s and Earth’s cultural and natural heritage are irreplaceable and have a universal value that can bring us together while celebrating our diversity. World Heritage status honors those values offering protection, support, global recognition, funding, and more.

• There are 1,154 physical sites are listed across 167 governing bodies.
• 897 are impressive cultural landmarks – temples, castles, historic old towns, or ruins.
• 218 of these sites are natural biodiversity hot spots – national parks, nature reserves, coral reef systems, or rainforests.
• 39 are mixed cultural and natural sites
• 52 of these sites are listed as “In-danger” for various reason
• There are 88 are intangible cultural heritage listings – dances, craft skills, stories, music, and more. You can watch, see and listen to these online!
• 3 have been delisted for losing their cultural authenticity

While World Heritage aims to protect these sites, you can see some of them ultimately end up on the ‘in-danger’ list or delisted altogether. Additionally, according to the IUCN and UN, many more are threatened by a wide array of threats including both anthropogenic and natural threats. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Susanna • Sustainable Travel (@curiositysaves.travel)

What are the Most Pressing Threats to UNESCO World Heritage Listings?

The threats to UNESCO sites include four main categories:

• Visitor Impact – overtourism and unchecked recreation causing erosion, littering, gentrification, defacing artifacts, cultural degradation, etc.
• Environmental – climate change, earthquakes, pollution, rising sea levels, etc.
• Industrial – urbanization and resource extraction from oil, mining, and logging companies
• Politics and global conflict – wars, weak policy and mismanagement, armed conflict, inequality, and poverty.  

In this article, I will talk mainly about tourism’s impacts while highlighting all four. If you’re interested in learning about the threats beyond tourism in more detail, stay tuned for an in-depth article exploring the concept of No-Go UNESCO coming soon.

UNESCO World Heritage Sydney Opera House, Australia

Threats from Tourism – Mostly Unsustainable Tourism

Numerous governing bodies identify mismanaged tourism, overtourism, and recreation as some of the greatest threats to heritage sites.

• 60% of natural sites are at significant risk from tourism and recreation .
• The UN identifies unchecked tourism as one of the main threats to cultural heritage sites .

Now, I would bet most people reading this article have already taken steps toward sustainable tourism. You might be thinking, “Well, I’m in the clear. I’m not the jerk carving my name into historical artifacts or taking a dump behind an ancient wall!” First, congratulations on not taking a dump while carving your name in a wall. Second, many ways tourism impacts these sites are unintentional and caused by indirect actions. 

With every new UNESCO World Heritage listing, every traveler’s radar suddenly goes off with everyone booking tickets and sharing photos from these sites #UNESCO. Tour companies build these destinations into their itineraries and drop people off by boat or busload. Some of these sites were popular before their listing and have been dealing with tourism for decades. And thus, mass tourism ensues. As much as we don’t want to be part of mass tourism, admittedly, human nature and our #FOMO make it hard to stay away from the world’s iconic spots – they are iconic for a reason. Unfortunately, unchecked tourism growth in a region happens before proper systems are in place. 

UNESCO World Heritage Lake Ohrid, N. Macedonia

So, what are some of the impacts of unsustainable tourism?

In just four short years, Angkor Wat had a 100% increase in tourism visitors . Explosive and unplanned growth shocked local communities that could not quickly adapt and develop sustainable tourism. The Angkor Wat complex has survived more than 1,000 years, and within the era of mass tourism and since World Heritage listing, it has rapidly degraded. Many travelers describe the headache of dealing with throngs of people, waking up at 4 am just to see the site, and feeling crowded and like their experience was inauthentic. Other sites, such as the Taj Mahal or the Great Wall of China, can receive 80,000 people per day. 

UNESCO World Heritage Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The concept of ‘ tourismificaiton ’ describes commodifying culture for tourist enjoyment. This can happen when tourists buy souvenirs but do so cheaply, contributing to the loss of artisan skills and craftsmanship. Additionally, when tourists treat culture as a commodity, the residents may even change their clothing or traditional stories to appeal to foreign tourists. These behaviors all contribute to the cultural degradation of a region. 

Overtourism in Machu Picchu threatens the S. Americans Andean Cloud Forest – a biodiversity hot spot. The Andean Condor has been observed to leave the regions with heavy tourism. Unruly large groups of people can contribute to erosion, and parts of the historic ruins are sliding downhill. For perspective, the main site at Machu Picchu supported 500 Incan people. At the peak of overtourism in the area, thousands visited a day. Visitor quotes, local guides, and caps have been necessary to reduce the damage, but years of overtourism in the region has left its mark.

The boom and bust cycle of seasonal tourism means many locals that work around these cultural sites have little to no work during the off-season . Additionally, many people travel in large groups and utilize a foreign guide from their organized tour, leaving many local guides without a job contributing to economic tourism leakage of a region. Jobs in tourism may only be accessible for people who are educated and speak English marginalizing groups of people.

Ecotourism in the UNESCO marine site off Corisca has caused a significant decline in breeding pairs of Osprey birds . The area was closed to fishing and industrial exploitation to ensure the Ospreys had adequate food. Their population increased until nature-based tourism came to the region. The noise pollution and disturbance from tourists are now contributing to a decline in the species. Many fisher people lost access to the marine protected area in order to help preserve the Osprey birds and then had to watch as tourism disrupted their former fishing zone. Policies such as this can create conflict with locals and give more rights to tourists than locals, further increasing inequality.

UNESCO World Heritage Corsica, Italy

The Semarang Old Town in Indonesia saw a significant increase in gentrification and an overall reduction in the quality of life for locals . Tourists outpriced locals, resulting in a loss of shelter and vendors selling necessities, such as food, to locals. This isn’t necessarily the fault of tourists, but rather poorly managed tourism led by the government. 

Something similar has happened in Hội An , where instead of a variety of shops serving both locals and tourists, most buildings in the old town are now cafes or galleries to suit the needs of tourism. Many describe the Hội An UNESCO old town as authentic in appearance only – the beautiful historic buildings remain, but their function is only to serve tourists. The impacts from over-tourism are becoming so noticeable that even as Vietnam pushes for sustainable tourism development, tourists themselves are choosing not to return.  Here it is important to remember that as travelers we have the option to never return or leave a destination that we single-handedly trash, but the locals living there can not leave and are left dealing with our mess.

UNESCO World Heritage Škocjan Caves, Slovenia

Even in more developed countries with the capacity and budget to manage tourism, such as within the EU, world heritage status can become a burden. In the historic center of Venice, many locals complain that they are drowning from both waves of cruise ships and the thousands of people they bring . Many other historic European old towns, such as Prague, suffer from crippling overtourism. Tourism at the UNESCO heritage cave, Škocjan, alters the microorganism biome with system-wide impacts. Nightlife tourism in the heritage site of Ibiza contributes to increased crime and drug use. 

Even in the United States where many of our national parks double as world heritage sites are suffering from overtourism. Places like the Grand Canyon experience increases in litter and people only visiting 1-2 trails contributing to erosion. Busses drop off loads of people for a quick photo before moving on. Many people take little time to learn about the Indigenous history in these parks.

Infrastructure development and urbanization meet the rising demand for large numbers of tourists. New mega-hotels and roads cause ecosystem fragmentation, erosion, and pollution . Forests and other ecosystems are destroyed to make room for these facilities. 

Tourism demands a lot of resources , including water and food, and it puts a lot of pressure on local resources. In some cases, locals go without water, while hotels utilize precious reserves for tourists . 

UNESCO World Heritage Venice, Italy

Ultimately it is overtourism or mismanaged tourism that ruins the experience for other travelers. No one likes to fight through swarms of people at 6 am to see a site – no matter how amazing. Somewhere along the way, you might feel like you are no longer visiting an iconic piece of history, and instead, you are surrounded by pushy, loud tourists. Somewhere along the way, you might realize you are no longer getting the unique cultural experience you initially ventured out to find. When this happens, tourism fails us all: the traveler, the local, all while undermining the goals of UNESCO  heritage .

This quote from Ben Salt, a dedicated responsible traveler , reflects on how poorly managed tourism can undermine our travel experiences in World Heritage sites like Bagan, Myanmar.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Salt (@hellobensalt)

The impacts of overtourism can be so drastic to certain sites that some experts even question whether UNESCO status is more a burden than a blessing , especially in developing countries. Often, many communities ignore the negative social and environmental impacts of overtourism while focusing on the substantial economic benefits from tourism. However, as we’ve learned, tourism that ignores any one of the three pillars of sustainable tourism, let alone two, can not be considered sustainable long term. 

I  know that was depressing, but we will cover some solutions and positive impacts of tourism to UNESCO sites in just a minute – so hang tight.

Environmental Threats

Climate change is the most significant environmental threat. Rapidly changing weather patterns cause coral bleaching at UNESCO Great Barrier Reef. Other ecological hazards include natural disasters such as forest fires, flooding, coastal erosion, and earthquakes. 

UNESCO World Heritage Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Unfortunately, tourism often contributes to environmental degradation, including the spread of invasive species, erosion, littering, ecosystem fragmentation, and depletion of natural resources. Impacts from tourism and the environment go hand in hand in a vicious feedback loop. 

Industrial Threats

Many World Heritage sites are part of biodiversity and resource hot spots. You think status would be a given to not exploit resources, but that isn’t always the case. The Salar De Uyuni holds one of the world’s largest lithium deposits. Developing it for mining is a very complex issue and if not done properly in collaboration with environmental codes could come with consequences for the environment, local communities, and its world heritage status.  

UNESCO World Heritage Sumatra Rainforest, Indonesia

The World Heritage Sumatran Rainforest is on the “In-Danger” list due to threats from the logging industry and agricultural development. These examples highlight the difficulties of balancing resource demand and preservation.

Political Threats

The UN can award heritage status regardless of location, with many listings in unstable geopolitical or war zones. These governing bodies may lack the resources, means, or desire to enforce the protection of these areas. Additionally, some governments may see more value in economic development through industrial development.

UNESCO World Heritage Damascus, Syria

The Arabian Oryx Sanctuary in Oman lost its heritage status because the government reduced the sanctuary’s size by 90%, all but certainly sealing the fate of Arabian Oryx to extinction in the region. All six UNESCO sites in Syria are in danger due to the political instability and war in the region. 

Can Tourism Be A Tool for Cultural Preservation, Instead?

By the time many destinations grapple with the reality of the impact of overtourism, finding sustainable solutions can be an uphill battle. This uphill battle might be with tourists who push against visitor quotas or have certain expectations in their minds of a destination. Perhaps it will be with the government that wishes to prioritize economic benefit while excluding local needs.

UNESCO World Heritage Dubrovnik, Croatia

UNESCO offers as much help as they can to help facilitate collaboration among local communities, governments, tourism boards, tourists, and land managers so that everyone can enjoy these sites for longer. When these groups work together that is when the magic starts to happen. One thing that can help is when travelers take the initiative to be part of the solution. 

While some cast doubt on whether world heritage status is a burden, UNESCO has many success stories , contributing to the counterargument that UNESCO is a necessary lifeline for many of our planet’s most precious treasures .

Most branches of the UN and many others agree that that path forward must include well-managed , sustainable, equitable, and community-led tourism, which can offer many benefits. These benefits include tourism as a tool for conservation, poverty alleviation, peace, gender equality, and economic equity for developing nations. 

UNESCO World Heritage Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino, Mexico

World Heritage status saved places like Delphi in Greece and the Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino in Mexico from development and exploitation.  Digging deeper, some sites, especially during the pandemic, are suffering from under tourism – putting them at greater risk from other threats such as industrial exploration and unstable political turmoil. In these situations, tourism can become an incentive to move forward cautiously with sustainable resource management. 

Sustainable and community-led ecotourism at UNESCO sites in the D. R Congo has contributed to a significant increase in the population of critically endangered mountain gorillas. Thanks to tourism the population has increased from 400 to over 1,000 proving that community-led tourism can deliver. The tourism model in parts of Africa can deter poaching with equitable economic incentives where the entire community benefits.

UNESCO World Heritage Kahuzi-Biega National Park, DR Congo

The World Heritage site of Uluru is undergoing an Aboriginal revitalization period. Tourism facilities and companies in the Uluru region are now almost entirely owned and operated by Aboriginal communities. Instead of engaging in the offensive act of climbing Uluru, tourists can now partake in community-led tourism. Tourists can take part in Indigenous-led experiences, visit a community center, purchase hand-crafted art, and learn about ecology through an Indigenous lens all while supporting Aboriginal training initiatives in hospitality and management. The experience was put back in the hands of the Native people for an enriching cultural exchange between the traveler and the Indigenous stewards of the land.

My husband who is Australian spent some time in Uluru a few years ago with his entire family. He described this new Indigenous-led experience as enlightening and important for Australians and tourists alike to learn about Australia’s diversity and ancient history.

UNESCO World Heritage Uluru, Australia

Tourism is breathing new life into Uzbekistan after it recently became more accessible for travel. As I explored the World Heritage sites in Uzbekistan I was given the privilege to learn about Islamic culture, art, history in a mind-blowing experience. One of my favorite things I learned was that each color and pattern in the riles represented something different.  For example, the geometric shapes intentionally don’t depict specific figures because they are meant to inspire the onlooker to think in an enlightened and spiritual way. I developed such an appreciation for parts of the world I grew up only hearing negative things about and I fell in love with the destination.

UNESCO World Heritage Samarkand Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleums, Uzbekistan

We don’t need to be the problem – we CAN be part of the solution ! We, travelers, are in a powerful position walking a fine line between protecting or degrading culture. Right here, right now, YOU and I need to decide to be better travelers and stewards of our world heritage. It will require some sacrifice on your part, and it may at times be challenging. By educating ourselves and changing our behaviors, we can be a positive force and a great incentive for local communities to engage in sustainable community-led tourism while protecting these sites from outside threats for generations to come.

Ok, so how can we make sure tourism is a tool for preservation for UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

As long as you commit to being part of the solution and not the problem. Tourism benefits can outweigh the negatives , but it takes effort. We are one piece of the puzzle. Sustainable tourism, driven by demand from people like us, combined with good governance and community-led tourism, can help alleviate the most pressing threats to UNESCO. 

UNESCO World Heritage Regensburg, Germany

Here are some actionable steps for a responsible guide to visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites.

17 Sustainable Travel Tips for Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Implementing these 17 sustainable travel tips will often lead to enriching and positive travel experiences that benefit both you and your destination.

If you don’t believe me, take it from  Ben Salt. Who, in contrast, to his experience with over-tourism in Bagan had a transformative experience in the Salar de Uyuni during the off-season when he embraced many of these 17 principles and you can see the rich experience he had because of this.

'For four days, I traversed the ever-changing, otherworldly landscapes of southwestern Bolivia towards the town of Uyuni, which sits remote and isolated beside an unfathomably vast salt flat. I’d booked the tour with a small, locally-owned operator, which meant my money went where it was most needed. It was also rainy season there, and so low season for tourism, as was my wish.' Click To Tweet

“I stayed within desolate huddles of basic, brick buildings, inhabited only by a few families. I walked beneath volcanoes, across vast, barren plateaus, beside colour-changing lakes, gurgling geysers and strange, petrified rock formations, on dirt, sand, rock, snow and salt. But I’d had the sort of meaningful experience that can only come from the connection I now felt to both my indigenous guide and driver and everything I’d learnt about the land to which these people are inextricably linked. Without those shared moments and meaningful cultural exchanges, travel has always felt increasingly hollow for me – at times, even colonial, voyeuristic and harmful.”

1. Engage all Three Pillars of Sustainability

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, this is a good reminder that no visit to a UNESCO site can be considered sustainable without targeting all three pillars of sustainability. Before your trip, you should be able to identify all the ways you are benefitting the socio-economic well-being of the local community and the surrounding environment. For an easy way to do this, I make a Venn diagram and flesh out each section. If you are unsure – email your tour company or accommodation and ask them how they benefit all three! If any of your circles are missing details, ask yourself how you can do better? I always say that it will be almost impossible not to have some negative impact, but as long as the good outweighs the pat and you can identify positive impacts in all three categories – you, my friend, are on your way to becoming a responsible traveler to UNESCO World Heritage sites. 

2. Go Against the Grain

You hopefully picked up on a theme here – one of the biggest problems is overtourism. 

There is a concept in conservation science called carrying capacity. Tourism managers increasingly use this equation to determine a sustainable capacity for the number of visitors per day. Many sites that suffer from overtourism operate well above the carrying capacity with large groups of people showing up at the same place and time thus reducing the quality of education, management, environment, and experience. 

Diffusing mass tourism may be one of the most meaningful and impactful things you can do to reduce your impact – and it is one of the easiest! To help alleviate the pressure from overtourism, you should go against the grain.  Visit World Heritage sites off-season. This is a great way to enjoy a location without the crowds. I visited Meteora and Delphi in the middle of January and the locals were so friendly and welcoming our experience was much more relaxing than fighting our way through crowds in peak season. 

UNESCO World Heritage Delphi, Greece

Visit the lesser-known UNESCO sites that might be suffering from under tourism. Under tourism puts UNESCO sites at greater risk from other threats as places may not see the benefit in preserving them. Every UNESCO site has something unique to offer, and you’ll gain a rich cultural experience from diversifying your itinerary. Try not to think of this as missing out on a popular site or being an inconvenience to you – think of it as gaining a rich and unique cultural experience.

When visiting lesser-known sites, be mindful of…

You are setting the tone for tourism development in the region. Sites that suffer from under tourism may see you as an opportunity to attract more like-minded visitors. If you give them the impression that tourists want to commodify culture, treat locals like a photo booth, buy cheap souvenirs, drink Starbucks, and stay in large multi-national all-inclusive hotels – then that very well may be the future of this location. As an early visitor to these sites, it is your duty to set the standards. Let local communities know you are interested in authentic local food, homestays, local guides, the natural beauty, the real-life of locals, traditional language, song, dance, and stories. Let them know you are ok leaving the comforts of your home behind and want to engage and learn authentically. Let them know you care about nature and the people.

My husband was one of the first Australians to enter Uzbekistan on their new e-visa system, at a time when the country was just opening up to travel. We both considered ourselves to be responsible for shaping the tourism industry. We were respectful, generous, and engaged with locals in meaningful ways.

UNESCO World Heritage Bukhara, Uzbekistan

If local communities and governments see the economic benefit of community-led sustainable tourism, they are more likely to adopt this going forward. 

So go forth and be a sustainable steward for these lesser-known destinations. You can feed two birds with a scone – diffuse mass tourism and set the foundation for sustainable tourism development. 

This goes for some of the more popular and well-established sites as well. It is essential to talk with your money and actions to prove that sustainable well-managed sites can be profitable and worth everyone’s time.

3. Change Your Travel Style 

Most of us who have been traveling throughout the last decade+ can probably say we are guilty of rolling up to the Leaning Tower of Pisa in a massive bus of young backpackers. We all stumbled out to take our photos dragged around for a few hours by a non-native tour guide before loading back on the bus for our next stop. 

Sound familiar? I know, we’ve all lived and hopefully learned – or are learning. 

A growing body of research s ays the longer tourists stay at a destination, the less impact they have on the local and natural environment – in some cases almost tapering off to a neutral impact – how cool is that? Staying longer, traveling slower, and touring in a small group led by a local significantly declines your impact. 

A great example of this is at Machu Picchu – most people just visit the main site, which causes erosion and degradation of the Andean Cloud Forest ecosystem. But, the Peruvian government and local tour operators are committed to dispersing tourism and more people are taking the time to explore the region at a slower pace visiting places like Choquequirao and Vilcabamba to alleviate the pressure from overtourism. 

UNESCO World Heritage Tivoli, Italy

Ensure you always visit sites with a small group led by a local guide or by yourself with a local private guide. Stay longer than a few hours hopping on and hopping off a bus at places like Pisa. Find a homestay, locally-owned, or eco-hotel check-in and allow yourself time to soak in the true beauty of these sites and their surroundings. 

Even if the site is only big enough for a day trip, like Tivoli in Italy, you can still take time to explore the rest of Rome and the surrounding region slowly, soaking in the cultural highlights. This helps add context to the site you visited and enhances your learning experience. 

While taking public transportation is great, you might want to reconsider visiting these sites in large tour busses or cruise ships owned by multi-national companies with non-native guides.

Can you reach your destination by train? If so give it a go! If not, can you reach there by direct flight? Use Google flights to calculate a low-carbon flight route.

4. Local, Local, Local

Locally driven tourism initiatives are more sustainable because they support and foster healthy and happy communities. Make sure you book a local hotel or accommodation. Use resources such as Homestay, Couchsurfing, or read a hotel’s about page to find the owner and their commitment to the local community. 

Book and hire a local guide. Some locations, such as Angkor Wat, actually make this easy. To visit Angkor Wat, you must now utilize the services of a certified Cambodian guide. However, in places like Venice, this can be more complicated, and you need to go out of your way to find a local guide. If you ever find yourself in a position where you can’t find a certified local guide – reach out to the tourism board or check the UNESCO heritage site website to see if they offer tours with a local guide. 

UNESCO World Heritage Ephesus, Turkey

We hired several private guides committed to sustainability for our sustainable itinerary in Venice. Based on talks with other travelers, we had a very unique and special experience.  We also used local guides in Turkey and appreciated an inside look into the country’s culture, history, and rocky future.

In summary, everything you do at these sites should be local: local accommodation, guides, restaurants, food, products, souvenirs, and more. 

5. Stop the Tourism Leakage 

The more you support local initiatives, the less tourism revenue leaks out from a destination – so these two go hand in hand. These sites are the ones buckling under the pressure from tourism, and therefore they are the ones that need the income to help manage these threats. At the end of the day, the locals are the ones cleaning up your trash, breathing your pollution, or paying to repair erosion. Your money, if kept locally, can help create sustainable locally-driven management and infrastructure development. 

Learn all about tourism leakage and how to stop it , in my comprehensive guide. 

6. Respect and Appreciate the Authentic

Often, before we visit these sites, we might have a picture in our head about what our experience might be, what the locals might look like, and what the surrounding nature will look like. Saying things like, “I am definitely going to see a wild tiger in the Sumatran rainforest,” or “I saw this cool photo of people fishing in Hội An – I can’t wait to get that exact photo too!” These images are shaped by other travelers, social media, and blogs.

If we go to UNESCO sites with these images in our heads, we begin to expect them, whether authentic or realistic. There is a chance you won’t see a tiger in Sumatra. If you expect that to the point of expressing severe disappointment in your reviews – locals might be tempted to bait a tiger so you can see one. This impacts the behavior and physiology of wildlife and can contribute to the wildlife trade. 

Expecting your preconceived ideas about what local costume, song, or dance is before you experience it can contribute to the decline of traditional stories, loss of respect for elders, and other cultural degradation. 

UNESCO World Heritage Hội An, Vietnam

So, my best piece of advice here is to throw everything you think you know about a UNESCO site out the window and go in with an open mind . Then, when you arrive, respect the authentic culture, nature, and landscape for what it is and enjoy learning about culture and nature from a local through an authentic experience.  I even stopped looking at social media before I go to places like UNESCO sites, it helps me go in with that open mind and enjoy the experience I am given with no expectations. 

Take a minute to read through some of these TripAdvisor Reviews of UNESCO site Hội An : Some of the more negative reviews include a rant about the tourist fee to enter the old town and how to avoid paying. These fees can go a long way to help locals maintain the site’s integrity. 

Additionally, some of the reviews complain that all the shops are just tourist traps, or the site lacks authenticity. I can only shake my head at these comments – not because they are wrong, but because we tourists can be our own worst enemy. By not respecting authentic local culture and life, these sites can turn into “tourist traps,” causing other tourists to complain about a said tourist trap. 

7. Be a Rule Follower

Let’s return to the concept of carrying capacity and those “annoying” entrance fees mentioned in the TripAdvisor reviews. Let’s say the carrying capacity for the Alhambra is 500 people a day. This means that as long as no more than 500 people visit per day, only minimal or manageable degradation will likely happen. Most tourists will have a pleasant experience. Smaller groups of people are easier to monitor and manage. Guides can ensure there is quality education happening.

Many sites under threat from mass tourism may limit the number of people visiting by charging a fee, requiring reservations, setting a daily capacity limit, introducing time slots, or keeping people in small manageable groups.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Alhambra, Spain

These aren’t done to piss you off, even if that is what happens. Trust me, as a spontaneous traveler, I know how frustrating these restrictions can be. They can also exclude groups of people who are unable to buy tickets in advance. However, the very reality is without acknowledging the carrying capacity of a place there might not be a future. These capacity limits can also help improve experiences like Ben’s stressful sunset watching in Began.

Please make sure you respect these limits and restrictions. Don’t sneak into the area, duck under ropes, complain about fees, or go off-trail. Not knowing the rules is not acceptable. You should take time to visit visitor centers, read websites, and ask questions. Respect all rules and regulations to ensure you don’t unknowingly cause damage. 

Since capacity limits can be frustrating, to avoid missing out on an experience due to restrictions, make sure you research your planned UNESCO site ahead of time. See if you need tickets, a certain time slot, or to budget for an entrance ticket. Alhambra is a notorious UNESCO site that is hard to get tickets. Planning and preparing is your best bet to ensure you can see these sites while respecting capacity limits. 

8. Value Craftsmanship

There is a time and place to haggle, but with artisanal craftspeople at UNESCO World Heritage Sites is not one of those times or places. The authentic handcrafts and traditional styles are part of the region’s heritage. People spend entire lifetimes perfecting their skills, often through backbreaking working conditions. If you can financially visit these sites and choose to take home a souvenir, you can value the product with your money. Even though Uzbekistan was easy on my budget, one of the most expensive souvenirs I own came from the World Heritage site in Samarkand. I bought a beautiful display plate painted with a traditional style – that took years for the artist to master. I happily paid the price and then even tipped the artist. 

Hand-crafted plates at UNESCO site in Bukhara

Your certified local guide might suggest a vendor or have a tip on how to spot authentic pieces. When I was in Venice, our guide reminded us to look for stickers on the window certifying traditional craft skills. 

Additionally, you should research your souvenirs. Many products may be made using endangered species such as Hawksbill turtle shells, fragile corals, or wood from an endangered tree. You should always ask about materials, know which are protected, and avoid buying souvenirs with materials sourced from animals. Even traditional practices are regulated in line with internationally recognized endangered species and wildlife trade – so there is no excuse to buy a keepsake that is produced with unethical materials as there are plenty of traditional options that are ethically sourced. 

Don’t miss this guide to sustainable souvenirs and why they are a great gift for your friends or family back home – or to keep as a travel memory.

9. Reduce Waste and Consumption

Tourism is a significant drain on resources and contributes to an increase in solid waste (litter and trash) and even raw sewage. The impact can be severe in some locations, especially in developing countries that already struggle with waste management. Waste, sewage, and resource depletion reduce the quality of life for locals, strain municipal budgets, and contribute to biological changes in the ecosystem such as eutrophication and impacts on wildlife. 

UNESCO World Heritage Istanbul, Turkey

You should do your best to avoid all unnecessary consumption. Pack your water filter bottle like Lifestraw, so you can drink the local water. Visit local markets for plastic-free snacks for the road. Never throw your trash in an overflowing bin or on the ground. Avoid buying extra things you don’t need, and make sure you do adequate research to ensure you pack everything you need. Ask your guide for local waste-reduction tips. You should always look for and respect local recycling initiatives. 

10. Take Responsible Clicks

You must implement responsible photography at UNESCO sites. In Hội An staged fishing photos that use locals as props for photoshoots (regardless of whether you pay them or not) is a massive ethical issue. This transforms authentic cultural experiences by commodifying the people as objects for your pleasure. Even if the locals seem enthusiastic, it does not make this type of engagement ethical or economically stable local term. It can have a cascading impact on the cultural integrity of a region. I suggest you read some tips on responsible travel photography to find authentic ways to capture moments. 

It doesn’t help that these staged photos sell. This award-winning photo is highly controversial  as it was part of a coordinated photoshoot. Remember that there are real people on the other side of your camera. No number of Instagram likes are worth engaging in this behavior.  When photographers pass these images off as captures of a lifetime it paints an unrealistic picture of culture in the region.  Focus on trying to capture natural moments, the colors, the details, and the real sights of a UNESCO site without standing in line for a staged opportunity. 

UNESCO World Heritage Mostar Bridge, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Additionally, when it comes to natural UNESCO sites, make sure you are never on a photo tour that baits and provisions wild animals for your pleasure or to capture a photo. If you see a wild animal in its natural habitat without assistance from any human – excellent – take that photo mindfully. However, suppose you don’t see wildlife. In that case, it is ok! Know some happy tiger family is off snoozing blissfully. Many tours that focus on ethical wildlife experiences will never promise animal sightings and will instead promise traditional story-telling so you can still learn about the local ecology.  

11. We Definitely Need Some Education

You should visit UNESCO World Heritage sites to learn. These aren’t just bucket-list destinations to smash through and collect destinations like notches on your belt. You are doing yourself and these sites a disservice if you do not learn something. Take time to learn about why these sites exist, their history, success, and threats. You can do this by again working with a knowledgeable and certified local guide, visiting museums visitor centers, reading educational sites, and most importantly, taking the time to learn instead of just blowing through quickly. 

UNESCO World Heritage Medina Azahara, Spain

When I visited the Medina Azahara I noticed about 80% of the guests didn’t visit the museum/education center or have a local guide. A quick look through Google Reviews revealed many complained the ruins lacked context and were confusing. This could all be solved by taking the time to learn about the site. I visited the museum before seeing the ruins and gained a deep contextual understanding of the civilization behind the ruins. Additionally, it provided a great base of knowledge for my slow travel journey through the rest of Andalusia.

Ask yourself why you are visiting? If your answer is for an Instagram photo or just to check off a bucket list item, reconsider your motives.  Ask yourself how both you and your destination can benefit from your presence. 

12. Check your Shoes, Clothing, and Bags for Hitchhikers

Tourists are one of the world’s biggest vectors for the spread of harmful non-native invasive species . Harmful invasive species can significantly reduce the biodiversity of a region and threaten the most endangered and unique species at UNESCO biodiversity hot spots. Invasive species can spread through the dirt in your shoes, bugs in your backpack, spurs in your clothing, ballast systems in cruise ships, kayak paddles, and the non-native food if you litter. Before and after you enter any UNESCO natural site, you should clean your shoes of all dirt, wash your clothing in warm water – or check for any straggling seeds, and check your gear for any tagalongs. Never throw food scraps on the ground, no matter how “harmless” it might seem. 

UNESCO World Heritage Pyrenees, France/Spain

13. Remember, People Live Here

You are entering someone’s home when you visit many of these sites. Often, World Heritage sites are located near vulnerable groups of people such as Indigenous tribes, war-torn communities, low-income families, or other marginalized groups. You are in a place of privilege, and you should treat these sites, the people, and nature with the utmost respect. Don’t crowd and invade local space. Don’t stand in the middle of the street to take photos. Don’t assume people are there to serve and please you. Don’t be loud and trash the place—research and respect local customs and dress codes. You do not have more rights than the people that live there.

14. Choose Your Food Wisely

Eating authentic and local cuisine is a great way to engage in cultural exchange. Local, seasonal, traditionally cooked, and ethically sourced food is the best way to go! However, local food does not always mean ethical food, be careful you are not consuming endangered species or foods that are internationally banned or caught illegally with unsustainable practices. To reduce your tourism leakage, don’t go seeking out Mc. Donalds, and try something regional! Many UNESCO-heavy destinations, such as Italy, are embracing a slow food movement – and let me tell you, enjoying the experience of eating pasta while the sunsets over a Tuscan vineyard during a local homestay is an incredible experience. 

Cacio e pepe – Authentic Italian Pasta

As a vegetarian myself, I sometimes have difficulty finding authentic vegetarian food, but there is usually always a unique local vegetarian food worth trying.  

15. Research Risks and Threats

Before you go, you should research the site, especially the threats. I can recommend the UNESCO site, open-source academic papers, reliable news sources like The Guardian, The Conversation, WWF, and the website of the place you are visiting.

UNESCO World Heritage Jungfrau, Swizterland

While I have given a wide variety of threats from tourism to numerous sites, this list is not exhaustive, nor does it apply to each site. Every site is unique, and you should treat it as such. If you are visiting a site under threat from mass tourism – ask how you can visit off-season. If you are visiting a site at risk from environmental degradation, ask how to reduce your impact. If the location is at risk from logging, ask how your presence can deter industrial activity and foster sustainable tourism. 

16. Give Back 

Instead of traditional offsets, I take the time to donate to local causes. For example, are there any causes relating to that list of threats you just made that could benefit from your donation? If you learned that your nature-based tour experiences threaten Osprey populations, can you donate to an Osprey conservation group IN ADDITION to changing your behavior to be less invasive to the species? 

UNESCO World Heritage Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Does tourism often contribute to the cultural degradation of an Indigenous group? Do they have a cultural center that you can make a donation to support? If you are struggling to find good causes, then donate to the UNESCO World Heritage directly . They use the funds to help the cultural integrity of these sites. No matter how big or small, donating is a great thing to do for anyone visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites responsibly. 

17. Share Your Story, but do so Consciously

Whether you consider yourself a travel blogger, content creator, photographer, influencer, or just a travel enthusiast, you have influence! How you share your experiences matters. 

If you perpetuate exploitative behaviors on social media or through your photography, you contribute to a negative social norm surrounding these behaviors. If you pay a local to stage a photo for you or glamorize harmful images touching animals, pretty soon everyone will be doing this questionable behavior. If you write captions that perpetuate colonial mentalities, you uphold this system.

UNESCO World Heritage Salzburg, Austria

Think carefully about the stories and images you choose to share. 

To have a positive impact – do what I love to do after visiting a UNESCO or any other special place invite friends and family over for an evening of culture. Cook a recipe you learned, play traditional music from the World Heritage site, and share your responsibly captured travel photos and stories. Tell your friends about the people you met, the unique species you learned about, the food you tried, and how excellent your local guide was. Share the threats and daily behaviors they can adopt at home or during their next trip to reduce those threats. 

Practice story-telling responsibly on your blog and social media.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Susanna • Sustainable Travel (@curiositysaves.travel)

This is something I strive to do, but I am always learning to do better. Please follow along on my journey

The New Path Forward for Sustainable Tourism at UNESCO Sites

Many UNESCO World Heritage sites buckling under the pressure from tourism are reconsidering how they approach visitor management, which is great! For example, Angkor Wat now requires certified Cambodian local guides. The Škocjan Caves are utilizing the concept of carrying capacity to minimize tourists spreading microorganisms. Machu Picchu and Peru are trying to redistribute the tourism load while promoting alternative Inca locations. They have also implemented capacity limits and quotas, requiring advanced registration to trek. Additionally, the use of certified local guides is increasing for treks.   

UNESCO World Heritage Valletta, Malta

These are all steps that the UN, destination managers, governments, local tour companies, and communities can take to protect these sites. Still, we tourists and travelers are responsible for our actions. By mindfully visiting UNESCO sites to have a positive impact, rather than a negative, we help create a demand for sustainable and responsible tourism at our World Heritage locations. 

Discuss, Share, and Spread the Curiosity

Thanks for sticking around until the very end. I know that was a lot of information to process. However, using this sustainable travel guide to visit UNESCO sites respectfully can help ensure these sites are around for future generations. Otherwise, these sites risk losing what makes them so valuable from both tourism and additional external threats. 

Make sure you save this post so you can come back to it when you are planning a sustainable trip to any of the world’s amazing World Heritage sites.

• What was something you learned about the threats to these UNESCO sites?
• How will you change your behaviors when visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites?
• Have you visited a UNESCO site before and seen some of these problematic behaviors in yourself or other tourists? Why do you think embracing more mindful travel practices to preserve these sites matters?
• Did you visit a World Heritage site and have a great experience? Tell us about it in the comments, and what do you think made it so great? Did you hire a local guide or visit off-season? 

Thanks for committing to be a more responsible traveler when visiting Earth’s most precious destinations. Make sure you let us know that you commit to more responsible UNESCO travel in 2022.

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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26 comments.

I’ve been to so many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and seen tourists littering and standing all over the ruins or on walls. This is a great post for people to read so that they know how to act when travelling to these types of sites.

Right! I see this behavior all the time and I truly don’t understand why people think it is ok to just trash the homes of local people and literally our planet’s most valuable and treasured places. Hopefully, this post can reach a few people and encourage them to be mindful of their behaviors at UNESCO World Heritage sites. Thanks for reading!

I love the ethics behind this work. I totally agree with your philosophy and I think is really important to respect the nature and the amazing things the world offers us. Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for reading and engaging! Please feel free to share so more people have access to this information so we can all visit UNESCO sites more mindfully.

wow i’ve never heard of tourism leakage until i read your article – it was so insightful and i appreciate that you had another piece dedicated to it too . this was such a meaningful lesson for me today!

Aww, thank you for taking the time to read and learn with me – I really appreciate it.

Thank you for this very thought provoking article. As a frequently traveling family, we have, over the years, come to appreciate many of the things you mention. We’ve first hand seen the effects of over-tourism in regions we’ve visited and have welcomed the news that some of them implemented quotas and other restrictions. But so much more needs to be done and the task is a Herculean one. I’ve learned a lot from this very well researched and well thought out article.

Thanks for reading! Yes, it is a big task while quotes can be an effective policy it requires behavioral change on our part to support these policies.

What a fantastic guide, Susanna! For me, it’s all about staying in the traveller mindset, as opposed to the tourist one. Experiencing the essence of a place always starts with building relationships with local communities and embodying respectful curiosity. After all, if you don’t respect the place and the people, why would you want to go there in the first place.

Thanks for reading, Margarita! That is a great way to put it to embrace the role of the traveler. With such wide-reaching impacts preserving world heritage will require work from all of us – together, the local, the traveler, the tourist, the government, and tourism agencies. Hopefully, more people can become aware of some of these impacts and be inspired to embrace that traveler you are talking about!

Thanks for being a voice for nature. Appreciate your love for sustainability.

Thought provoking, fabulous post as always.

It’s so sad when we end up loving places and making them worse. I used to live in Nara (which has multiple world heritage sites.) It was always sad to see how many people would rush in peek at them for half a day then leave again. The locals really needed more people to stay overnight and spend a teeny bit of time there… Travelling slowly and visiting some of the amazing things just off the main trails makes such a big difference.

It’s not just Unesco sites that this happens to. Popular hiking trails are similar – thousands of people head to the same few trails…when there are so many great other possibilities. If people just spread out and visited a variety of places, they’d be so much less harm to the surrounding nature.

It really is one of the more tragic aspects of the travel industry – we love places to death. Thanks for the insight into Nara and what it was like there. I would love to visit Japan and will make a point to stay in Nara! Everyone has a better experience if we can learn to go against the grain! Thanks for reading, Josy!

Thanks for sharing this important article. Even if we don´t carve our names on the walls, we def need to think more of the travel choices we all make. It´s crazy how places like Taj Mahal or the Great Wall of China may receive 80,000 people per day. We all need to be more active to ensure the future existence of these epic sites around the world for future generations!

A fantastic post covering some really important points for these incredibly special places. I like how you highlighted all the threats and deep dived mainly on the visitor/tourist impacts, many of which are effortless, but just require knowledge and careful consideration to make better choices!

Wow very informative article, thanks for that Susanna! Indeed inspiring travel tips not only for UNESCO sites. Slow traveling is more important to me these days, I like to stay longer in places, connect with locals or travelers and support the local economy.

That is an eye-opening post. We all think that we are contributing to sustainable tourism. But, in reality, none of us is willing to see through the mess the locals of the tourist destination have to clear every day.

I really like all the tips you shared at the end! They are the most helpful. It would be such a pity to damage these beautiful and unique places even more!

Yes, Yes, Yes to all of this! This is such a detailed article and responsible tourism is so important as the “world gets smaller.” It’s so frustrating to see instagram tourism and big tour companies exploiting places, cultures, and animals in the name of greed, simply to make a quick buck. I always try to travel with local tourism in mind. Thank you for writing about this tough issue.

Incredible article. I love to visit the UNESCO sites and I will follow these recommendations.

I’ve been to several UNESCO sites that surprised me by how poorly they were maintained. I always assume that because they have UNESCO status that they’re taken care of, but no. Thank you for these great tips!

Very interesting and eye-opening article. Such a great reminder to always be respectful and mindful of the places we are visiting. I always try to do this and strive to be more of a sustainable traveler! Very inspirational read!

This article is incredibly thorough and really helpful. Thank you so much for putting this together.

Such an important post. Mass tourism threatens to destroy that which we came to see. Thank you for all the suggestions.

It’s a shame that this post needs to be written – but thank you! People just do what they want and don’t leave the world a better place. These sites are so special – that’s why they’re designated!

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Travel World Heritage

Guide to UNESCO World Heritage Sites

How to visit the most beautiful archipelago on Earth, without breaking the bank by going to local islands.

Mulu national park, one of the best unesco sites is flying under the radar, the thorough evala=ua, fifty pictures of this amazing hidden gem., koreas unesco sites, the best guide to these seldom visited sites, with pro tips from a pseudo-local., discovering germany: the most worthwhile unesco world heritage sites to explore .

Germany is a fantastic starting point for exploring Europe’s countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Why? Because “Wow” is the first word that will come to mind once you see the natural beauty of this land. Plus, we get a wonderful look into the country and the region’s famous past with the rich history and culture here. We’ve put together a list of the absolute must-see sites for you to check out. Just keep reading to find out more. 

Historic Cities  

You’ll be absolutely captivated by the enchanting tales of the past best told by Germany’s historic cities. And let’s not forget, they provide the opportunity to stroll down the very streets iconic figures once walked on. That connection to the past is something that is simply priceless, don’t you think? It can also be hassle-free through Exoticca’s tours to Germany . The travel company is your reliable companion to convenient and unforgettable vacations in Europe and practically every corner of the globe. 

Key Cities  

Berlin – Your trip to Germany’s UNESCO sites should begin in Berlin, the country’s lively and diverse city. What makes this city so interesting is the way it combines old and new. It’s like walking through a museum, with the Brandenburg Gate, the remnants of the Berlin Wall, and other historical monuments still standing amongst modern architectural structures. 

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Renting a Car to Drive Around Maui, Hawaii

Hawaii is undoubtedly a popular tourist spot. Out of all the places to visit in the state, Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island, is a beautiful hotspot worth checking out. In 2022,  Maui County hotels saw a rise  in room revenues by 29.7% from pre-pandemic numbers in 2019. While the growth from the pandemic is still gradual, it’s a sign that more and more tourists are starting to travel to the island again. On top of its beauty, Hawaii owes its popularity to its many attractions. It’s home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, so if you’re looking to  travel to a UNESCO World Heritage Site , the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is something to keep in mind as it is currently Hawaii’s only World Heritage Site. While the national park isn’t located in Maui, it’s still a notable destination if you want to tour statewide. For today’s post, we’ll look at the relaxing and breathtaking activity of  driving  around Maui, Hawaii, and everything you need to know to enjoy your drive:

Top 80 Things to do in Korea OUTSIDE of Seoul (2022)

Korea has lots to offer outside of Seoul. Over the last decade, I’ve published, updated, and expanded this list many times. For 2022, here what I think are the “Top 80 Things to do in Korea OUTSIDE of Seoul.” This year, I’ve have added a Kakao Map with instructions at the bottom of this post to help you find these places. Let the countdown begin!

Things to do in Korea Countdown: #80-61

Skip Ahead: Top 61-80 , Top 41-60 , Top 21-40 , Top 1-20

80) Chuja-do Island / 추자도

Chuja Island is a set of twin islands between Jeju and the mainland. This small island doesn’t get many visitors outside of two daily boats. The best way to explore it is to hike Olle Trail 18-1 which does an 8 loop around the island. Many claim it is the most challenging of the 26 Jeju Olle Trails, so try it if you’re up to the challenge. Around the island are interesting mosaics, beautiful natural scenery, and plenty of friendly locals.

Mulu National Park Review | UNESCO World Heritage Site

Last Updated: Aug 7, 2022

Visited: July 28-31, 2016 and July 22-27, 2022

Site Type: Natural

Inscribed: 2000

Background and Opinion: (2016 with a few corrections)

Gunung Mulu is a National Park deep in Malaysian Borneo. It contains dozens of caves including one of the longest in the world, Clearwater Cave. The caves are situated within 530 square kilometers of forest with over 3,500 species of animals and 21,000 species of plants.

One of Mulu’s main attractions is the “bat exodus,” a 10 million strong stream of bats that leave the caves to feed at night. Even if you’re expecting it, nothing quite prepares you for this hour long spectacle.

Enough with the numbers though, here is my not so technical evaluation. It is freakin’ mind-blowing. The best time to go is yesterday, but the second best time is now!

Read more →

Wander With Alex

Famous Landmarks Around the World: A Journey Through Iconic Wonders and Cultural Heritage

Posted: August 7, 2023 | Last updated: August 7, 2023

Visiting famous landmarks around the world is an exciting and enriching adventure, providing the opportunity to witness some of the most iconic and breathtaking destinations on the planet. From ancient ruins to modern architectural wonders, these landmarks offer a glimpse into the rich history and cultural heritage of different countries and civilizations.

Whether you’re an avid traveler or simply looking for a new experience, visiting famous landmarks is an opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation of the world around you.

1. Wat Xieng Thong

By Roshni from The Wanderlust Within

One of the best things to do in Luang Prabang  is visit the beautiful Wat Xieng Thong, located in the same complex as the Royal Palace Museum in Laos.

It is one of the largest temples in the country, and is also known as the ‘Golden Tree Monastery’ or the “Monastery of the Golden City”. Built in the 16th century by King Setthathirath, to commemorate the legendary King Chanthaphanith, it acts as a gateway to Luang Prabang with its strategic position close to where the Mekong River joins the Nam Khan River.

The site is famous as the location for the coronation of Lao kings, and the architecture references Luang Prabang, with elaborate mosaic patterns, wall carvings, rare Buddhist deities, a 12 metre funeral carriage and a pointed Vihan.

Nowadays tourists are able to visit Wat Xieng Thong, however they must be dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees covered) and act respectfully. The temple is only open a few hours a day so check before you visit but if you can then 6pm is a great time as you can witness the monks and novices taking part in their daily prayers and chants.

2. Chichen Itza

By Soumya of Stories by Soumya

One of the most famous landmarks worldwide that is also a wonder is the ancient city of Chichen Itza. Located in the Yucatan region of Mexico, Chichen Itza dates to the 9 th century CE and is one of the most important Mayan ruins in the region. Visiting Chichen Itza is a great day trip from Cancun or the Riviera Maya region of the coast.

Mayans used astronomical principles to create the entire city of Chichen Itza. They built several monuments, including a round observatory, to track the positions of planets and stars and predict weather and rain.

The most impressive monument in the complex is a tall, stepped pyramid called El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulkan that features a total of 365 steps – the number of days in a year. An interesting fact is that every year, during spring and autumn equinoxes, the Mayan God Kukulkan is believed to descend on the pyramid. People gather in huge numbers to watch this exciting phenomenon.

The Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Skull Rack are other intriguing attractions in Chichen Itza. Several smaller temples and podiums built in the Mayan or Toltec style also dot the complex. There are so many of them that it is easy to get lost. Travelers who want to get the most out of their visit should opt for a guided tour of Chichen Itza .

3. Duomo di Milano

By Or of My Path in the World 

Situated in the heart of Milan’s city center in northern Italy , the Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral or Metropolitan Cathedral-Basilica of the Nativity of Saint Mary) is one of the largest churches in the world and certainly one of the most impressive.

Comissioned by the Duke of Milan Gian Galeazzo Visconti in the 14th century, the Duomo took more than half a millennium to complete. It is not only an important religious site but also the last resting place of several members of the Visconti dynasty.

Built mostly in Gothic style with countless intricate details on the inside and out, it challenged dozens of Italian architects and engineers throughout the centuries. Even Leonardo da Vinci competed for a chance to design a small portion of the cathedral.

Different types of tickets will give you access to different parts of the Duomo, from the stunning rooftop overlooking the piazza to the intriguing underground archaeological area to the cathedral itself, making its indoor sights a fantastic place to visit in Milan on a rainy day.

By Louisa Smith of The Turkey Traveler

Located just 55km outside of Izmir in Turkey, is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus. This ancient city is one of the oldest cities in Turkey, dating back to the time of the Ancient Greeks.

Though the exact date it was built is unknown, legend has it that the Ionian Greeks built it in the 11th century as a trading port. Due to its location, it was one of the most important trading centers in the Mediterranean Region and the city had tremendous wealth.

Although the city lies in ruins today, you can still evidence of that wealth in the beauty and intricacy of the architecture found in the ruins.

One of the most important landmarks in Ephesus is the Temple of Artemis, which has been dubbed one of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In its prime, it was estimated to be four times bigger than the Parthenon in Athens. Today it is little but a column.

A beautiful landmark in Ephesus worth checking out is the Library of Celsus, whereby the outer facade is still well-preserved, with intricate Greco-Roman reliefs, arches, columns, and statues nestled in alcoves.

Ephesus was always an important city. It was even said that the Virgin Mary and St. John had visited Ephesus, which features in the New Testament.

However, the city declined after the River Kaystros dried out which meant that Ephesus could no longer operate as a trading port. Then it was hit by a devastating earthquake in the 6th and 7th centuries, destroying much of the city.

The final straw came when the Byzantine Arabs invaded, and the people of the city abandoned it to seek safety elsewhere. And it has been left to ruin ever since.

Today, visitors can still see the remains of the Greek theater, which could once hold 24,000 people, as well as the wealth of columns, roads, and broken walls where buildings once stood over a 415-hectare site, offering a hint at what used to exist here thousands of years ago.

5. Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

By Martha of May Cause Wanderlust

After the Eiffel Tower, one of the most prominent landmarks in Paris is the Sacré-Cœur, or, to use its full name, The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre. This Roman Catholic church sits on the hill of Montmartre and can be seen from all over Paris, its elongated white domes reaching heavenwards.

The elegant Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque basilica was completed in 1914, but was not universally popular at first. You see, Montmartre was the site of the Paris Commune, a revolutionary government that briefly seized power in 1871 and resulted in thousands of Communards being executed.  Left-leaning commentators complained that the building of the church was intended to obscure the memory of the Commune.

Visiting Sacré-Cœur is one of the best things to do in Paris, the kind of thing you should do on your first-time visit to Paris . You can admire it from the gardens on the hillside below, enjoy the view from the terrace directly outside it, and you can also explore the interior.  If you don’t mind a little exertion, you can also climb the 300 steps to the domes, where there’s a really unique view of Paris all the way to the Eiffel Tower.

And afterwards, have a wander around the cobbled streets of Montmartre, including the buzzing square, Place du Tertre. 

6. El Jem Amphitheater

By Kami of My Wanderlust

Located in the city of El Jem in central Tunisia, the marvelous amphitheater is one of the biggest attractions of the country and one of the best-preserved Roman remnants you will ever see. This impressive structure, built around 238 AD, was in fact the third-largest amphitheater of the Roman Empire after the Colosseum of Rome and the Roman Amphitheater of Capua.

Since 1979 the site was listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage List. Back in its glory times, the ellipse-shaped amphitheater could fit up to 35.000 spectators, making it one of the largest buildings of that kind in the world. Today you can visit the spectacular El Jem amphitheater and explore all its corners (including the underground parts).

The site is in really good condition (it’s better preserved than Rome Colosseum) and there are usually hardly any people around so visiting the place is very pleasant. The amphitheater is located only a 5 minutes walk from the El Jem train station, making it a very easy and accessible point in every Tunisia itinerary . 

7. Marina Bay Sands

By Grace Roberts of Pixie Dust and Passports

If you want a break from visiting tourist attractions like Universal Studios Singapore , Sentosa, and Lau Pa Sat, you’ll want to check out the towering Marina Bay Sands!

This fascinating building is a luxury hotel in the charming Lion City of Singapore and is home to the world’s largest infinity pool. It is a 5-star spot and boasts award-winning restaurants and a rooftop club that is ideal for dancing the night away.

Although it was only finished in 2010, it’s come to represent Singapore’s eternal move toward progression and success. It’s a 55-story building designed by architect Moshe Sadie and said to be inspired by card decks.

The three towers and the boat-like structure on the roof are recognized across the world, and the casino component of the resort is vast for national and international betting enthusiasts. Seriously, the world’s most expensive standalone casino property brings in ridiculous revenue for the country!

And if you’re lucky to visit the country at the right time, you might even be able to catch the Singapore Grand Prix, which is held here every single year.

8. Great Pyramid of Giza

Maggie McKneely of Pink Caddy Travelogue

It’s no question that the Great Pyramid of Giza is of the most famous landmarks in the world. The colossal structure of stone that rises from the Egyptian desert outside of Cairo is the last of the seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing.

While the pyramid complex consists of three separate pyramids, the Sphinx, and a handful of smaller tombs, the Great Pyramid is the largest and oldest of the structures. It was built to be the tomb of the Pharaoh Khufu around 2500 BC. It was the tallest manmade structure in the world for over 3800 years!

The Great Pyramid consists of 2.3 million blocks, weighing about 2.5 tons. Most blocks are limestone. Originally, all three pyramids were also covered in alabaster, but over time, the alabaster was removed by either thieves or for use in other construction projects, and the only alabaster that remains is at the very top.

A common myth about the pyramids is that enslaved people built them, but recent discoveries have shown that hired workers did most labor. Archaeologists discovered tombs around the pyramids explicitly constructed for these workers, indicating that they were well-respected for their dedication to the pharaoh.

While a little touristy and overrun by vendors, getting to marvel in person at the feat of human engineering that is the Great Pyramid is a once-in-a-lifetime must-do and should be part of any Egypt itinerary !

9. Tegallaland Rice Terrace

By Elena of Passion for Hospitality

Bali is famous for its lush rice terraces, and each of them holds a unique importance in the everyday life of the Balinese. The most popular rice fields to visit when in Bali are the Tegallalang Rice Terrace ; not only are they the most iconic agricultural highlights of Bali they have also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Just a short 20-minute drive from Ubud, the traditional Balinese irrigation system has maintained these well-preserved layers of rice paddies, which has served this land for millennia. Visitors can explore the area freely, wandering around the lush picture-perfect landscape. The immense greenery is a beautiful sight to behold.

The rice paddles almost look unreal as they are neatly piled one on top of the other, and you are guaranteed to capture some breathtaking, Instagram-worthy photos. The best time to visit would be early morning when the site just opens to avoid the crowds. 

10. Borobudur

By Victoria of Guide Your Travel

Borobudur is one of Indonesia’s most important landmarks and is considered the largest Buddhist site in the world. Located around 1 hour from the city Yogyakarta in Central Jawa, this is a must-see for all types of tourists.

Tickets cost around $25 per person and there are great student discounts available. It’s highly recommended to visit the temple for sunrise, which means having to arrive before 5 am. You can access the grounds early through the Manohara Resort and enjoy incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and the temple itself.

Once the sun has risen, visitors are free to explore Borobudur and its grounds. Just make sure to dress appropriately and cover knees and shoulders since this is a religious site and all visitors need to be respectful.

You don’t really need to join a guided tour to see Borobudur but there are plenty available if you’re looking for a more immersive experience. Don’t forget to explore Yogyakarta after you’ve seen Borobudur, the city is really worth it.

11. Leaning Tower of Pisa

By PlacesofJuma

One of the most special landmarks in the world is definitely the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a true must-see at least once in your life! This spectacular sight is located in Pisa – Tuscany , which also has an international airport if you want to travel by plane.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, built between 1173 and 1372, had already become skewed at that time. Many years later, between 1990 and 2001, this freestanding bell tower was forced to close due to its unsafe slope, which required an extensive maintenance. Finally, the tower has been straightened by 4 degrees; yet, the tower remains obviously bent, as seen in all classic photos about the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Cemetery, all of which are located on Piazza dei Miracoli. Admission to Piazza dei Miracoli is free, as is photographing the Leaning Tower. Climbing to the top of the tower, on the other hand, is a one-of-a-kind experience since the view from the top is stunning.

Because the Leaning Tower is one of central Italy’s most famous attractions, there is usually a large line to climb it. As a result, it is strongly advised to get your tickets a few days before!

12. Hallgrimskirkja, Reykjavík, Iceland

By Suzanne of Meandering Wild

This stunning church is dominant on the Reykjavík skyline forming a recognisable silhouette. It stands 74 metres tall on Skólavörðuhæð hill and can be seen from almost everywhere in the city.  It is located at the top of Skólavörðustígur and views from the bottom of the hill over the rainbow painted road is one of the best-known views in Reykjavík.

Inspired by a blend of Scandinavian modernism and the Icelandic landscape the architect took inspiration from the basalt columns at Svartifoss waterfall on the south coast of Iceland.  The basalt column shapes can be seen in the external pillars of the church and rise to a peak at the centre of the spire.

The interior is calm and simple, true to the Lutheran style apart from the spectacular pipe organ with its 5275 pipes. It is a working church and you will often find services and recitals which fill the church with beautiful sound.

A lift gives access to the open spire where views across the city and Faxaflói towards Snæfellsjökull volcano are stunning. Each  of the four sides of the spire has a different view giving a 360 view across the city and beyond.

13. Hungarian Parliament Building

By Brianna West of Travel Munchers

Budapest’s most recognizable building, sits majestically along the east bank of the Danube. The Hungarian Parliament building is unmissable during a trip to Budapest . Its buttresses, towers and mighty dome are dazzling from near and far. It is especially impressive at night. If you want a unique experience take a night river cruise and you will see it beautifully illuminated in a golden glow. 

Its official name is Orszaghaz which translates to “House of the Country” or “House of the Nation”. Orszaghaz is situated on Kossuth Square in the Pest side of the city, on the eastern bank of the Danube.

A competition to design the Hungarian Parliament Building was held in 1883. There were only 19 plans submitted and the winning design was proposed by Hungarian architect Imre Steindl. His plans included a neo-Gothic style and construction began in 1885. It took 1,000 workers and 17 years to build the Parliament. It was scheduled to be finished by 1896 to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Hungary’s foundation, but was not completed in time, instead it opened in 1902.

It has been the largest building in Hungary since its completion and houses 691 rooms.

Crazy fact: The Parliament building was so expensive, the money used to build it would have been enough to construct a small city! The inside contains intricate ceiling designs accented with a large amount of gold- 40 kilograms! 

14. Mont Saint Michel

By Faith of XYUandBEYOND

Mont Saint Michel is located on a small island just off the coast of Normandy and is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Mont Saint Michel is a medieval Abbey and village constructed over 1300 years ago.

To get to the island you take a free shuttle or you can walk or bike it. Technically it is free to visit the Mont, but parking will cost you €14.90 and there are charges to visit the small museums on the Mont itself along with a €10 fee to enter the Abbey.

Mont St. Michel contains a small village in which live around 50 people and a medieval monastery. It is only 17 acres and sits around a kilometre from the shore.

The Village of Mont Saint Michel starts right at the entrance and from there it’s all uphill. At the top of the main street, starts the “Grand Degre” 350 steps which lead up to the Abbey.

When you see the Mont close up you will spot ramparts that circle the island and a 3 tiered assembly of buildings from the 13th century known as La Merveille (The Wonder) that rise up to the abbey’s pointed spire. On the second terrace of La Merveille is Mont-St-Michel’s largest and most beautiful space, a 13th-century hall known as the Salle des Chevaliers. Crowning the mount’s summit is the spellbinding Eglise Abbatiale church. Only 350 or so steps to reach the Abbey and when you get there the entry ticket will cost €10 euros.

15. Callanish Stones

By Kristin of Scotland Less Explored

The Callanish Stones are located on Lewis in the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. The site is often called the “Stonehenge of the North” but it was erected over 5,000 years ago and is actually older than Stonehenge.

Although it is an important Scottish landmark, probably due to its location, it is much less visited than Stonehenge. This means that you might have the site to yourself and you can walk freely amongst the 13 stones that stand in a circle. The monolithic stone in the middle is nearly 5 metres tall!

There is a car park and visitor centre close to the stones where you can learn more about the history of the site. However, it is quite fascinating that nobody knows what the site was used for. One theory is that it was an astronomical observatory; another is that it was used for rituals over 2,000 years. According to local folklore the stones are petrified giants who would not convert to Christianity. 

A short walk away is another stone circle. It is smaller than the main one but its presence indicates how important this site must once have been.

After visiting this amazing landmark don’t miss the fantastic landscape and beaches on Isle of Lewis .

16. Sydney Opera House

By Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

The Sydney Opera House – one of the greatest buildings of the 20th Century, is the most iconic photo spot in Sydney . Not only that, it is one of the most famous and instantly recognised landmarks around the world and one of the world’s most photographed buildings due to its unique shape!

Sitting in a prime location in Sydney Harbour, from every angle the Opera House looks different yet uniquely spectacular – whether you’re on the stairs leading up to the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Royal Botanic Gardens or Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

The World-Heritage listed Sydney Opera House is a significant landmark for Australians as it is the symbol of a modern Australia. It was designed by a Danish architect for a competition to design an Opera House for Sydney .

Two hundred and twenty three designs were submitted and this one was selected as the winning building! The building displays innovative engineering and architectural styles and was expected to take 4 years to build but ended up taking 14 years as many problems arose during the building process!

The original estimate of the build was $7 million but it ended up costing over $100 million to build – talk about going over budget! Over a million roof tiles cover the Sydney Opera House, which was opened in 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II.

Often the Opera House is lit up at night in unique designs to commemorate special occasions such as Australia Day and Vivid Festival, which is really incredible to see!

17. Angkor Wat

By Jolene of Wanderlust Storytellers

Visiting Angkor Wat in Cambodia is truly one of the most magnificent experiences any traveler will have.

The extraordinary temples of Angkor Wat are within the Angkor complex. Here you will get to explore the monasteries, different capitals from the once-thriving Khmer Empire, and the many spectacular 9th to 15th-century structures.

Angkor Wat is a short 10-minute drive from the city of Siem Reap in the heart of Cambodia. The Angkor Archaeological Park stretches over 400 square kilometers.

The best way to explore the Angkor complex and temples is by driving as the distances between the ruins are better covered sitting down on the comfy chairs of your Tuk-Tuk. It is hot and you will have enough walking whilst discovering the temples (of which there are many!).

Angkor Wat is the largest and the most spectacular of the Angkorian monuments and is listed as one of the Wonders of the World. The sheer size, luxury, symmetry, balance, and sculpture make this monument one of the finest structures ever built and an architectural masterpiece.

Angkor Wat is the tallest building in the Angkor Wat area and, out of respect to their ancestors, no other buildings are allowed to exceed its height.  

18. Stonehenge

By Claire of Go South West England

Stonehenge is without a doubt one of the world’s best landmarks, and among the greatest places to visit in Wiltshire and all of England. 

This ancient stone circle is thought to be created by early Mesolithic hunter-gatherers around 5000 years ago for ceremonial purposes, although it could have also been used as an astronomical clock. 

The biggest mystery surrounding the monument is how the stones got there. They actually come from South Wales, some 160 miles from their current site on Salisbury Plain. They were dragged here, at a time when wheels didn’t exist, and nobody is too sure why!

Stonehenge is closest to Salisbury; you can get there by taking the train to Salisbury and connecting to a bus service. Alternatively, there is a large car park on-site. If you are an English Heritage or National Trust member, you can get free entry (it’s on National Trust ground but the stones themselves are English Heritage!). 

19. Tayrona National Park

By Marjolein of Radical FIRE

Tayrona National Park is located in Colombia, between the Sierra Nevada mountains and the Caribbean coast. Tayrona is renowned for its rich biodiversity and archaeological importance and has been nominated as a globally significant park by UNESCO . Nature enthusiasts and hiking fans must visit Tayrona National Park for a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Tayrona National Park also has some of the most stunning beaches in Colombia, with white sand, crystal-clear waters, and tall palm trees framing the lush forests. Explore these breathtaking beaches by following one of the many hiking trails, such as Playa Brava, Cabo San Juan, Playa Cristal, La Piscina, or La Piscinita. Please check the signs before swimming since not all beaches are safe to swim in.

Besides, Tayrona National Park is a haven for unique wildlife, including various species of monkeys, woodpeckers, insects, reptiles, and birds. This diversity of wildlife is one of the main draws for visitors to the park. You’ll have enough to do for days at this incredible national park! Just don’t forget to bring cash, as most things in the park need to be paid in cash, and there’s no ATM.

20. Space Needle

By Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

The Space Needle is located in Seattle, Washington, in the United States.  It’s not only one of the most famous attractions in Seattle , it’s one of the most iconic landmarks in the world!

The Space Needle is a 605’ high observation tower and was built for the 1962 World’s Fair.  The Space Needle’s iconic architecture is based on the World’s Fair theme. ‘Age of Space’.  The chief architect wanted the top to look like a flying saucer, which enhances the futuristic concept.

Guests take an elevator up to the top of the Space Needle.  The two passenger elevators are high-speed elevators, able to travel at speeds of up to 10mph.  There is one yearly opportunity to climb the 832 stairs of the Space Needle, during the annual charity event, the Base2Space stair climb.

Intrepid visitors can take in the stunning panoramic views of downtown Seattle , the Puget Sound, and the Olympic mountains from the Needle’s open-air observation deck, which is 520 feet above ground.

There is also an indoor observation level with a rotating glass floor (the Loupe), which is 500 feet above the ground.  It takes 30 minutes for a full revolution, so why not enjoy a drink or a snack in the Loupe Lounge while you enjoy the full 360-degree views of Seattle?

21. Tower Bridge

One of London’s most famous and prestigious landmarks, Tower Bridge has been delighting travellers for over 100 years. 

Dating back to the late 19th century, Tower Bridge was built to give better access to the East End of London . When it was built, it was one of the most sophisticated in the world, with neo-Gothic architecture and hydraulic-operated bascules. It was opened on 30th June 1984 by the then Prince and Princess of Wales. 

It’s been restored over the years and has periodically been painted different colours on jubilees and other national celebrations. The bridge rarely closes, so even if you’re visiting London in winter , you should still be able to enjoy it!

Contrary to popular belief, Tower Bridge and London Bridge are two different things. London Bridge sits a 15 minute walk away; this bridge was built in the 70s, but it replaced a 19th century bridge which replaced a 600 year old medieval bridge. London Bridge is a lot more nondescript, but you can get an immense view of Tower Bridge from it! 

22. Tower of Hercules

By Melodie Rush of Travel Must Do’s

The Tower of Hercules is located in La Coruña, Spain near the entrance of the harbor. It stands at a height of 185 feet. The building was first constructed by the Romans during the late 1st century A.D., although there may have been an earlier tower constructed in the same place. The tower was restored in the 18th century by architect Eustaquio Giannini and its Roman foundations were revealed during excavations in the 1990s.

The Tower of Hercules has been a symbol of La Coruña and is an important piece of maritime history. It serves as a lighthouse for ships navigating the nearby waters today and its impressive light can be seen from up to 32 miles away! 

It has also been featured in a number of movies and television shows throughout the years, including Game of Thrones. One fun fact is that the local legend claims that the Tower was built by Hercules himself as an act of penitence after killing his own sons.

It also serves as a reminder of the Roman Empire’s past influence in the region. This landmark has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009 due to its cultural significance.

The site also features a sculpture park, the Monte dos Bicos rock carvings from the Iron Age, and a Muslim cemetery.

23. Grand Canyon National Park

By Steve Morrow of Paddle About

The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations, with roughly 5 million visitors annually. This natural wonder is located in northwest Arizona, snuggled up next to Utah and Nevada. The mile-deep canyon was carved by the Colorado River over millions of years to leave the beauty we see today.

The canyon is 277 miles long, separating the North and South Rims. One of the most interesting tidbits about the Grand Canyon is that it averages about 10 miles across. Still, it takes about 5 hours to drive around from rim to rim. 

Most people visit the South Rim since it is much easier to access than the remote North Rim. In addition, there is a distinct elevation difference between the two rims, with the South Rim sitting at 7,000 feet and the North Rim at 8,000 feet. As such, the North Rim has cooler temperatures with noticeably different vegetation and scenery than its southern counterpart. 

Hiking is a popular activity at the Grand Canyon. You will hear folks talking about the vaunted “rim to rim,” or even more elusive, “rim to rim to rim,” which is  exactly  what it sounds like. Hikers make their way from one rim to the other and back again, some even accomplishing the feat in a single day while others camp for the night at Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon.

Other popular points of interest at the Grand Canyon include the Grand Canyon Skywalk, the South Rim Village, and North Rim Village. If you can visit the Grand Canyon , take the opportunity. You will not be disappointed.

24. Torres del Paine

By Alex Caspero of Delish Knowledge

If you’re planning a trip to Patagonia , you are most certainly putting Torres del Paine on your must-see list. Known for the towering, stalagmite granite mountains, glacier lakes, and plenty of wildlife– don’t be surprised to find a herd of guanacos on your path.

Torres del Paine is a hiker’s paradise, with the crown jewel being the Patagonia trek to the base of the famous towers, for which the National Park is named. This trail is on many hiking bucket lists for a reason– at the top, you are rewarded with an incredible view of the 3 towers in front of a bright blue lake.

Even on cloudy and snowy days, seeing this famous landmark up close is worth the all-day trek. 

25. Empire State Building

Although it is no longer the tallest building in the world, the Empire State Building in New York City , USA, remains one of the most recognisable landmarks around the world.

Occupying a full city block in midtown Manhattan, and standing proud at 102 stories, the Art Deco style Empire State Building is an impressive sight. When it was built in 1931, it eclipsed the Chrysler building as the world’s tallest building and held that title until 1970.

There are observation decks on the 86 th and 102 nd floors, offering panoramic views of New York City and, on a clear day, six states. The top floor observation deck is an iconic place and has played memorable roles in movies like An Affair To Remember (1957) and Sleepless in Seattle (1993) – making it one of the most romantic things to do in NYC .

However, for a great view that has the Empire State Building in it, head to Top Of The Rock in the Rockefeller Center a few blocks north. 

By John Dealbreuin of Financial Freedom Countdown

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Australia. It is sacred to the Aboriginal people and is the largest monolith in the world.

The giant sandstone rock formation stands 348 meters tall and spans 9.4 km in circumference. It is surrounded by the vast red sand desert that shines bright with various shades of red, orange, and purple during sunsets. Uluru has been a source of spiritual power for Aboriginal people for centuries, providing them with a spiritual connection to their homeland and culture. Archaeological findings showcase that Aboriginal people have resided in this area for over 30,000 years!

There are many activities at Uluru, such as exploring the various hiking trails and learning about the Aboriginal culture. Visitors can also learn more about the local flora and fauna by visiting the national park that surrounds Uluru. Home to 21 unique mammals, 73 reptiles, 178 birds, and four desert-dwelling frogs – the park is alive with a remarkable variety of wildlife.

“We were lucky to observe the local tribes of Anangu enacting traditional music and dance and narrating Tjukurpa stories. At nightfall, we witnessed the breathtaking view of Uluru illuminated by the stars above,” says John Dealbreuin of  Financial Freedom Countdown .

Uluru is an extraordinary experience not to be missed when traveling through Australia. From its spiritual significance to the physical grandeur of its sandstone formation, Uluru is sure to take your breath away.

27. Washington Monument

By Scott McConkey of Miles With McConkey

Washington, DC , abounds with memorials and monuments, but the Washington Monument towers above all others at 555 feet. The Egyptian-style obelisk honors George Washington and symbolizes America’s capital. It sits in the middle of the National Mall, where a long, rectangular reflecting pool connects the monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

Construction began in 1848 but was interrupted for over two decades due to the Civil War and a lack of funds. Upon its completion in 1884, the tower was the world’s tallest building. 

You may notice color variances when gazing at the marble structure. The stone had to be obtained from a different quarry when construction resumed after the lengthy delay. All told, three quarries contributed stone throughout the project.

Washington, DC, offers many things to see on and around the National Mall. Visit the Washington Monument along with the city’s other memorials and monuments. It is an immersive and fulfilling history lesson.

28. Catacombs of Paris

By Taylor of Traverse With Taylor

One of the creepiest famous landmarks to visit around the world is the Catacombs of Paris in Paris, France.

It won’t surprise you to know that, like many old European cities, Paris has a network of tunnels running beneath it. Some of these tunnels hold the gruesome remains of Parisians from years past in what are now dubbed the Catacombs of Paris.

Back in the 18th-century, overcrowding was causing Paris (and Parisian graveyards) to be hotbeds for plague and disease. In the midst of this, in order to find more space, quarries and labyrinths underneath the city that were once used for mining were transitioned into a place of rest for the dead. 

Initially called the Paris Municipal Ossuary, the Catacombs of Paris were first used as a bone graveyard in 1785. Cemeteries all over Paris were evacuated, and their bones brought beneath the city. 

Today, visitors can descend the 131 steps into the catacombs and take an audio guide tour through the stacked bones and skulls. At times, the maze through the bones is extremely small, so backpacks and other items are not recommended! 

You will be eerily close to the dead during a visit to the Catacombs of Paris, but it is unlike any other experience in Europe and something you must do during any visit to Paris !

29. Hot Springs National Park

By Ashlee Fechino of The Happiness Function

When most people think of the oldest national parks in the U.S., they think of Yellowstone and Yosemite. However, Congress designated four sections of land in Hot Springs, Arkansas, a federal reservation in 1832 to preserve its sacred natural thermal springs resources. Today, we know this land as Hot Springs National Park.

Hot Springs National Park became a designated national park under the National Park Service in 1916. But technically, it has been a protected national park since the 1830s, making it the oldest national park in the U.S.

Notable landmarks include Bathhouse Row, initially constructed in the 1880s and replaced with stucco buildings in the early 1910s and 1920s to ease fears of fire danger. During the 1920s, Bathhouse Row, in all its marble and elegance, created an incredible luxury spa scene in America.

The Grand Promenade is another historic landmark of the area. Located behind Bathhouse Row, the historic brick pathway goes by thermal springs bubbling out of the mountainside and has excellent views of Central Avenue and Bathhouse Row.

The Grand Pomenade and Bathhouse Row are part of a National Historic Landmark District. Today, visitors can soak in two historic bathhouses, one of the best things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas! 

30. Philadelphia Museum of Art

By Lisa Lightner of A Day in Our Shoes

When the media talks about Philadelphia , they love to show you images of the famous “Rocky steps.” And sure, it’s an iconic scene from an iconic movie that perfectly describes the city’s vibe.

But very few encourage you to go inside the art museum, which is just as breathtaking. 

An art museum might feel tedious if you aren’t into art appreciation. But in recent years, the Philadelphia Museum of Art has beefed up its programming to include family-friendly events and activities . They do an “Art Reach” program for children every summer. 

And a must-see within the museum is the Arms and Armor room. My boys love it at any age. Seeing ancient helmets and weapons made learning fun for them. The museum’s collection of artifacts spans 4000 years!

Philadelphians love our Rocky steps. Greek architecture-style buildings like it just aren’t constructed today and are beautiful. 

But, take time to actually step inside the museum buildings, which total almost 1 million square feet. With over 500,000 items in the collection, there indeed is something for everyone to enjoy and learn.

31. Sagrada Familia

By Krisitin of Global Travel Escapades

Easily one of the most famous landmarks in the world is La Sagrada Familia. Located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, this awe-inspiring structure is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world and has been under construction for over 140 years!   The church originally began construction under the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, but he quit. As such, renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí took over as head architect and aimed to have the church reveal a combination of Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Modernista architecture.   And even though, Gaudí passed away before much of the church was completed, he is recognized for his work and buried in the church’s crypt. Today, this structure has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as a symbol of Barcelona and the Catalan culture that extends to even the tiny country of Andorra .   Thus, if you ever find yourself in Barcelona, be sure to check out this architectural marvel.

Famous Landmarks Around The World

Visiting famous landmarks around the world is an opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and historical periods. Whether you’re a history buff or simply appreciate breathtaking beauty, these destinations offer something new and unqiue to everyone.

From grand palaces to towering cathedrals, each landmark tells its own story and provides a window into the past. So be sure to add a few of these iconic locations to your travel bucket list and experience their magnificence for yourself!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

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• Bucket List: 16 of the Most Beautiful Places in the World
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Moscow Oblast, Russia

The capital city of Moskovskaya oblast: Moscow .

Moscow Oblast - Overview

Moscow Oblast is a federal subject of Russia located in the Central Federal District. Moscow, the capital city of the country, is the administrative center of Moscow Oblast. At the same time, Moscow is not part of this region, it is a separate federal subject of Russia, a city of federal importance.

The population of Moscow Oblast is about 7,769,000 (2022), the area - 44,379 sq. km.

Moskovskaya oblast flag

Moskovskaya oblast coat of arms.

Moskovskaya oblast map, Russia

Moskovskaya oblast latest news and posts from our blog:.

23 June, 2022 / Natural Spring Gremyachiy Klyuch in Moscow Oblast .

23 March, 2022 / Main Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces .

31 January, 2022 / Vasilyevsky (Shcherbatovsky) Castle in Moscow Oblast .

1 August, 2021 / Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery near Moscow .

4 August, 2020 / Sights of Moscow Oblast - the heart of Russia .

More posts..

History of Moscow Oblast

The territory of the Moscow region was inhabited more than 20 thousand years ago. In the first millennium AD, this land was inhabited mostly by the Finno-Ugric peoples (Meryane and Meshchera). In the 9th-10th centuries, the Slavs began active development of the region. The population was engaged in hunting, fisheries, agriculture, and cattle breeding.

In the middle of the 12th century, the territory of the present Moscow region became part of the Vladimir-Suzdal principality, the first towns were founded (Volokolamsk in 1135, Moscow in 1147, Zvenigorod in 1152, Dmitrov in 1154). In the first half of the 13th century, the Vladimir-Suzdal principality was conquered by the Mongols.

In the 14th-16th centuries, Moscow principality became the center of unification of Russian lands. The history of the Moscow region is inextricably linked to military events of the Time of Troubles - the siege of the Trinity-Sergius Monastery by the troops of False Dmitry II, the first and second militias.

More historical facts…

In 1708, by decree of Peter the Great, Moskovskaya gubernia (province) was established. It included most of the territory of present Moscow oblast. In 1712, St. Petersburg became the capital of the Russian Empire and the significance of the Moscow region as the country’s economic center began to decrease.

In 1812, the Battle of Borodino took place near Moscow. It was the biggest battle of the Russian-French War of 1812. In the second half of the 19th century, especially after the peasant reform of 1861, the Moscow province experienced economic growth. In 1851, the first railway connected Moscow and St. Petersburg; in 1862 - Nizhny Novgorod.

The population of the Moscow region increased significantly (in 1847 - 1.13 million people, in 1905 - 2.65 million). On the eve of the First World War, Moscow was a city with a population of more than one million people.

In November, 1917, the Soviet power was established in the region. In 1918, the country’s capital was moved from St. Petersburg to Moscow that contributed to economic recovery of the province. In the 1920s-1930s, a lot of churches located near Moscow were closed, a large number of cultural monuments were destroyed. On January 14, 1929, Moscow Oblast was formed.

In 1941-1942, one of the most important battles of the Second World War took place on the territory of the region - the Battle for Moscow. In the postwar years, the growth of economic potential of the region continued; several science cities were founded (Dubna, Troitsk, Pushchino, Chernogolovka).

In the 1990s, the economy of Moscow Oblast experienced a deep crisis. Since the 1990s, due to the motorization of the population and commuting, road traffic situation in the Moscow region significantly deteriorated. Traffic jams have become commonplace.

Pictures of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast scenery

Author: Mikhail Grizly

At the airport in the Moscow region

Author: Evgeny Davydov

Nature of Moscow Oblast

Author: Alexander Khmelkov

Moscow Oblast - Features

Moscow Oblast is located in the central part of the East European Plain, in the basin of the rivers of Volga, Oka, Klyazma, Moskva. The region stretches from north to south for 310 km, from west to east - 340 km. It was named after the city of Moscow, which however is not part of the region. Part of the administrative authorities of the region is located in Krasnogorsk.

On the territory of the Moscow region, there are 77 cities and towns, 19 of them have a population of more than 100 thousand people. The largest cities are Balashikha (518,300), Podolsk (309,600), Mytishchi (262,700), Khimky (256,300), Korolyov (225,300), Lubertsy (209,600), Krasnogorsk (174,900), Elektrostal (149,000), Odintsovo (138,900), Kolomna (136,800), Domodedovo (136,100).

The climate is temperate continental. Summers are warm, winters are moderately cold. The average temperature in January is minus 10 degrees Celsius, in July - plus 19 degrees Celsius.

One of the most important features of the local economy is its proximity to Moscow. Some of the cities (Odintsovo, Krasnogorsk, Mytishchi) have become in fact the “sleeping districts” of Moscow. The region is in second place in terms of industrial production among the regions of Russia (after Moscow).

The leading industries are food processing, engineering, chemical, metallurgy, construction. Moscow oblast has one of the largest in Russia scientific and technological complexes. Handicrafts are well developed (Gzhel ceramics, Zhostov trays, Fedoskino lacquered miniatures, toy-making).

Moscow railway hub is the largest in Russia (11 radial directions, 2,700 km of railways, the density of railways is the highest in Russia). There are two large international airports - Sheremetyevo and Domodedovo. Vnukovo airport is used for the flights within the country.

Attractions of Moscow Oblast

Moscow Oblast has more than 6,400 objects of cultural heritage:

• famous estate complexes,
• ancient towns with architectural monuments (Vereya, Volokolamsk, Dmitrov, Zaraysk, Zvenigorod, Istra, Kolomna, Sergiev Posad, Serpukhov),
• churches and monasteries-museums (the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, Joseph-Volokolamsk monastery, Pokrovsky Khotkov monastery, Savvino Storozhevsky monastery, Nikolo Ugresha monastery).

The most famous estate complexes:

• Arkhangelskoye - a large museum with a rich collection of Western European and Russian art of the 17th-19th centuries,
• Abramtsevo - a literary and artistic center,
• Melikhovo - an estate owned by A.P. Chekhov at the end of the 19th century,
• Zakharovo and Bolshiye Vyazyomy included in the History and Literature Museum-Reserve of Alexander Pushkin,
• House-Museum of the composer P.I. Tchaikovsky in Klin,
• Muranovo that belonged to the poet F.I. Tyutchev,
• Shakhmatovo - the estate of the poet Alexander Blok.

The architectural ensemble of the Trinity Sergius Lavra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest museum of the Moscow region is located in Serpukhov - Serpukhov Historical and Art Museum.

The places of traditional arts and crafts are the basis of the souvenir industry of Russia:

• Fedoskino - lacquer miniature painting,
• Bogorodskoe - traditional manufacture of wooden toys,
• Gzhel - unique tradition of creating ceramics,
• Zhostovo - painted metal crafts,
• Pavlovsky Posad - fabrics with traditional printed pattern.

Some of these settlements have museums dedicated to traditional crafts (for example, a toy museum in Bogorodskoe), as well as centers of learning arts and crafts.

Moskovskaya oblast of Russia photos

Landscapes of moscow oblast.

Nature of the Moscow region

Country road in the Moscow region

Moscow Oblast landscape

Author: Mikhail Kurtsev

Moscow Oblast views

Author: Asedach Alexander

Country life in Moscow Oblast

Author: Andrey Zakharov

Church in Moscow Oblast

Author: Groshev Dmitrii

Churches of Moscow Oblast

Church in the Moscow region

Cathedral in Moscow Oblast

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