Take a Walk Through Time

We don’t need to tell you the world’s a big place! It may be an obvious statement but the truth is, life’s wonders are hard to fathom unless you see them for yourself. From classic historical sites like the Colosseum to lesser-traveled sites like Volubilis, here are just some of the landmarks you need to see to believe.

1. Colosseum

We recognize the Colusseum from hit movies or the odd high school lesson, but visiting it is the only way to truly appreciate its historical significance. It’s the world’s largest amphitheater and certainly one of the oldest, nearing 2,000 years old. It took the better part of seven years to build it before hosting legendary gladiatorial battles.

2. Palace of Versailles

If it’s good enough for Marie Antoinette, it’s good enough for tourists. It’s actually one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, drawing in millions every year to explore the French gardens and walk the same golden halls as Louis XIV did—and who could forget the Hall of Mirrors?

3. Taj Mahal

History buffs won’t feel cheated visiting a mausoleum from the 1600s. Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his late wife, the impressive structure was made with white marble and took nearly 20 years to complete. It features intricate designs and inlaid gemstones such as lapis, diamonds, and emeralds.

4. Machu Picchu

Whether for the mountains or a piece of Peru’s history, you ought to visit Machu Picchu at least once. Though occupied between 1420 and AD 1530, no outside visitors were recorded at this Incan citadel until 1911, the year of its rediscovery by American explorers. Today’s tourists can explore the temples and see the dry-stone architecture for themselves.

5. Stonehenge

For years people questioned everything about Stonehenge—from its construction to its purpose, this historical landmark has always been the talk of the town. Construction lasted between 3100 to 1600 BC and popular theories claimed everything from giants to aliens were involved. Looks like you’ll have to pop over and decide for yourself.

6. The Great Wall of China

It’s called great for a reason! Technically speaking, it’s not exactly a wall—it’s a series of fortifications spanning just over 13,000 miles total. Its earliest construction is believed to have started in the 7th century BC, but plenty was completed during the Ming dynasty. Tourists won’t only see breathtaking scenery but they’ll also walk along one of the most impressive manmade feats.

7. Pyramids of Giza

No, the aliens didn’t help with this one either. Though, you could understand people’s fascination and outlandish theories! It’s hard to envision a 450-foot structure built with millions of hand-cut stones. Its construction still baffles people to this day, and it’s the kind of thing you need to see to believe.

8. Cologne Cathedral

This cathedral somehow looks like a sketch came to life. A testament to the beauty of Gothic architecture, Cologne’s cathedral has been standing since the 1800s, though its original construction began in 1248. Tourists can gawk at everything from its arches to St. Peter’s staff.

9. The Parthenon

One foot on the Parthenon’s grounds and you’re immediately back in 438 BC. This amazing former temple was initially built for Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom. As if that wasn’t cool enough, history buffs can also spot some of the temple’s original sculptures. (The rest lie in museums across Athens, Denmark, Vienna, London, and Paris.)

10. Volubilis

If you’re looking for a less-visited archeological site, Morocco’s Volubilis is the place to be. These Roman ruins have been around since the 1st century BC. They’re also farther away from the bustle of popular tourist traps, allowing you to truly take in its sights, such as the basilica, its arches, and mosaics.

11. Angkor Wat

Make sure to visit Angkor Wat the next time you’re in Cambodia—especially since it’s pretty hard to miss! Considered the world’s largest religious structure, this temple stretches just over 400 acres. Originally built in 1150 CE as a Hindu temple for Vishnu, it slowly became a Buddhist temple over time.

12. Lalibela

The whole world is steeped in history, so don’t forget about Africa’s monuments. Perhaps best known for its monolithic churches, Lalibela is particularly significant for Christians and is considered one of the holiest historical sites.

13. Easter Island

Oh, you thought Stonehenge had impressive work? Try this remote Chilean island! The name “Easter Island” was only given by Dutch explorers in the 1700s—its Indigenous name is Rapa Nui, an important fact considering the island is full of 1,000 massive statues. 400 of them honor former Polynesian inhabitants’ ancestors, and all are on display for tourists.

14. Hagia Sophia

Completed back in AD 537, this mosque and former church offers plenty to tourists. It’s packed with history from the Byzantine era, boasts stunning architecture, and was once a significant place of Muslim worship.

15. Auschwitz-Birkenau

Given the event’s historical significance, it makes sense that scholars and tourists alike take this important trek through time. In addition to the grounds themselves, the on-site museum is also filled with prisoner’s personal items, SS equipment, and the Book of Names.

16. Pompeii

A city buried under ash, Pompeii is just a short train ride away from Naples. It was destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, claiming homes and lives so quickly that the entire city is essentially preserved in time—and given that it’s a city, there’s plenty to explore.

17. Tower of London

Who doesn’t want to visit a castle from 1066? As you can imagine, the entire place is chock full of history (and ghost stories if you’re into that kind of thing). It’s also home to the Crown Jewels and countless historical sights like armor and the infamous Tower exhibit.

18. Chichén Itzá

Classified as one of the new seven wonders of the world, Chichén Itzá offers lots of history. It was developed between 750 and AD 900 and tourists can venture into ball courts, observatories, or test their nerves at the wall of skulls.

19. Statue of Liberty

Perhaps right in your backyard, Lady Liberty is owed at least one visit in your life. There might be a lot of stairs to the top, but it’s worth it for those views and to know you’ve climbed atop the very symbol of freedom itself.

20. Petra

It’s beautiful, it’s impressive, and it’s Jordan’s biggest tourist attraction. It’s a historic archeological city best known for its rock-cut architecture. The city itself was built between 400 BC and AD 106 and attracts millions of visitors each year—though you might want to be careful around the constant sellers.