Some Of The Best Tourist Attractions In The World

Travelers are constantly looking for inspiration to guide their adventures. When looking at a globe, it can be difficult to come up with a list of places to visit. What are the best tourist attractions in the world? What are the most iconic sites that every traveler wants to see around the world?

Some destinations simply stand out from the rest. Many places, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum, are obvious photo opportunities. However, some places are less well-known to new travelers or those who have yet to visit more exotic destinations. These are often the most rewarding to visit.

Many of these attractions are significant because of what they symbolize and the destinations they represent. In other cases, the site itself is reason enough to visit the country. Some of these are among the most popular UNESCO World Heritage sites.

If you want to create your own bucket list of places to visit, start with our list of the world’s top tourist attractions.

1. Alhambra, Spain

The 13th-century Nasrid Dynasty’s wealth and power are shown in the Alhambra, perched above Granada. One of Spain’s top tourist attractions and UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has elegant gardens, lush courtyards, bubbling water features, and stunning buildings.

The Palacios Nazaries—the Royal Palace, the Palace of Ceremonial Rooms, and the Palace of the Lions—are among the Alhambra’s incredible buildings. Plan a full day to explore. Granada’s Alcazaba ruins offer stunning views of the city and mountains.

2. Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Prague is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Prague Castle, located on a hill across the river from the city center, exudes an imposing presence. The castle is an incredible collection of buildings dating from the ninth to fourteenth centuries.

Stroll across the ornate 14th-century Charles Bridge, which spans the Vltava River, and then climb the hill to explore the castle complex’s narrow, twisting streets. The castle is one of the largest in the world, and almost every corner contains a historical building, church, or open square.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro

In Tanzania, this majestic mountain, a dormant volcano, is Africa’s highest peak and one of the continent’s most recognized symbols. The snowcapped peak stands at 5,985 meters (19,340 feet) and is frequently used as a backdrop for photographs of wild animals in Amboseli National Park and other areas.

You can see this beautiful sight from afar or take a multi-day hike to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro for spectacular views of the landscape and to watch the sunrise.

4. Borobudur, Indonesia

Borobudur, Indonesia’s top tourist attraction, is set in a steamy jungle with three volcanoes as a backdrop.

Borobudur, which dates back to the ninth century, is one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples. It’s an interesting place to wander around. Over 500 Buddhas can be found throughout the site, some of which are under ornate stupas.

Visit early in the morning for the best chance of seeing some early mist and a clear view of the volcanoes.

5. Petra, Jordan

You may feel like Indiana Jones as you walk through a 1.2-kilometer-long narrow crack in the sandstone hills and emerge in a hidden city. The city was built over 2,000 years ago and was lost to the rest of the world for 600 years before being discovered in 1812.

Stunning buildings are carved directly into the red rock walls and are impeccably preserved, begging to be discovered and photographed.

If you arrive early, the eerie silence, combined with long shadows, gives this abandoned city a unique feel.

6. Mount Fuji

Japan’s highest and most famous mountain is Mount Fuji. This dormant volcano, often snowcapped, is a spiritual site and a top Japanese tourist attraction. Mount Fuji, one of three UNESCO World Heritage Site Holy Mountains, is 3,776 meters high.

In Japan, mountaintop hiking is popular. About 300,000 people climb one of four routes each year. Hiking to the summit before sunrise is a popular activity.

Mount Fuji is 100 kilometers east of Tokyo and accessible by public transit and tours.

7. The Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is the one sight in India that all visitors must see. The country is full of incredible cities and wonderful places to visit, but the 17th-century Taj Mahal in Agra is the one that truly says you’ve been to India.

This mausoleum, commissioned by Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal, is internationally recognized as a symbol of love. To fully appreciate this fantastic structure, which is made of inlaid precious and semi-precious stones, you must visit it.

The Taj Mahal’s riverfront location, surrounding gardens, and reflecting pools all contribute to its uniqueness.

8. Statue of Liberty, New York City

America has many wonderful sights and places to visit, but the Statue of Liberty best represents the United States. In 1896, the French presented the Americans with this symbol of freedom in New York City.

This is one of New York City’s must-see attractions. The best thing to do at the Statue of Liberty is take a ride up to her crown and enjoy the view of the city. Access to the statue is via ferry, which is also a highlight of the trip.

If you don’t have time for a tour, you can visit the statue without leaving Manhattan. Battery Park offers the best views. You can also see the Statue of Liberty for free by taking the Staten Island Ferry. See our guide to exploring New York City by water via the NYC Ferry System.

9. Eiffel Tower, Paris

All travelers must see the Eiffel Tower, Paris’ symbol and the world’s most photographed structure. This iron structure inspires travel like few other landmarks.

Paris attracts first-time travelers, couples seeking a romantic getaway, artists seeking inspiration, and romantics of all kinds. This city blends history and culture, giving visitors of all kinds the experience they want. Don’t miss the tower’s nighttime lighting and city views from the top.

10. The Acropolis, Athens

From above Athens, the Acropolis draws you in. Step up the same steps as the ancients did 438 BC–2,500 years ago.

Walking between the meticulously restored ancient buildings offers stunning city views. Stay for the sunset on the stairs near the entrance. This is an Athens nightly ritual.

Looking up from the city below, the site is impressive. Dine on a rooftop patio to see the hilltop ruins lit up at night.

11. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

The Angkor complex’s ancient structures may look like a movie set to visitors surrounded by jungle and overgrown with huge trees and roots.

Walking through Angkor Wat, the complex’s main attraction, feels like entering another time. This is one of Southeast Asia’s most impressive sites and the main reason people visit Cambodia.

Images of stone faces peering over buildings and gates will stay with you. Angkor Wat is near Siem Reap, a popular Cambodian tourist destination.

12. Great Wall of China

In a land of modern cities and towering skyscrapers, China’s Great Wall, built between the 14th and 17th centuries, stands out as a stark but striking image that all visitors to China should see.

A walk along the top of the wall offers a breathtaking view of the structure that stretches off into the distance. The wall spans an incredible 21,196 kilometers through some remote areas.

Many tourists visiting China choose to visit the Great Wall on easily organized tours departing from Beijing, which is only a short motorcoach ride away.

13. Machu Picchu, Peru

Visit this if you only see one South American attraction. Machu Picchu may be the most impressive ruined city.

Its location in Peru’s jungle mountains is appealing. Surreal scenery on a high plateau with green mountains. The builders’ tenacity in building this amazing place in an impenetrable jungle is impressive. The experience has improved due to daily visitor limits.

14. Grand Canyon, USA

All travelers planning a lifetime of adventures must see the Grand Canyon, the US’s top natural attraction. Standing on the Grand Canyon rim and viewing the carved landscape awakens your senses.

Hikes along the canyon rim and canyon offer unique views. Walk even a short distance down Bright Angel trail to see more and experience the canyon below the rim.

Get more adventurous by rafting the Colorado River through the canyon. The Grand Canyon changes with the seasons and day. One visit never suffices. Consider your goals before visiting this place to determine the best time.

15. Niagara Falls

These great falls on the US-Canada border have drawn explorers and travelers for centuries. Niagara Falls is a fun place to stay a night or two just over an hour from Toronto.

Walk up to the falls, walk along the paved gorge walk, or take a boat tour to see the water pouring over the gorge lip. The Skylon Tower offers a bird’s-eye view of the falls.

View the falls at night in different colors. Visit the falls in winter to see the massive mist plume. Niagara Falls is accessible from Toronto and Buffalo.

16. The Colosseum, Rome

The most famous and largest structure still standing from the Roman Empire, the Colosseum is also the biggest attraction of modern-day Rome. It’s been a bucket-list destination of travelers for generations. And it does not disappoint.

Set in the heart of the city, the Colosseum is an easy place to visit. Direct flights from around the world land in Rome daily, making it a destination you can visit in a weekend if you choose. Wander through Rome’s ancient streets, tour the colosseum, and if time allows, plan a trip to other areas of Italy.

17. Sydney Opera House

Like many other attractions around the world, the Sydney Opera House is easily identifiable and clearly associated with Australia. A photo of you in front of the white sails screams Australia.

The Sydney Opera House was built in phases and officially opened in late 1973. To fully appreciate the structure, take a tour inside to see the distinctive shape and hear the exceptional acoustics. Enjoy the view from the Opera House area back to the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.

18. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

If you’ve been to ancient sites like Rome’s Colosseum or Athens’ Acropolis, which were built over 2,000 years ago, you might think you know a lot about them. The Pyramids of Giza, on the other hand, raise the bar for ancient architecture. These were built more than 4,500 years ago. Tourists came to see these magnificent structures literally thousands of years ago.

The pyramids, which also house the Sphinx, are conveniently located just outside Cairo, and tours are easily arranged. A sunset camel ride around the structures is an amazing experience.

19. The Louvre, Paris

You must visit the Louvre in your lifetime. Even if you hate museums, this one is worth visiting in Paris.

Even though the Louvre is best known for the Mona Lisa, there are other reasons to visit. Numerous masterpieces by the greatest artists are in the museum. But even the building is iconic. The glass pyramids and 18th-century building are well-known and have appeared in many movies.

20. Chichen Itza, Mexico

The ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza have drawn curious tourists since John Lloyd Stevens’ 1843 book popularized them. The site, near the center of the Yucatan Peninsula, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular Mexican tourist attraction.

Along with the Great Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, and eerie Skull Platform, the 30-meter Pyramid of Kukulkán has been fully restored.

Chichen Itza is 200 kilometers from Cancun and can be visited in a day from Playa del Carmen and other Mayan Riviera towns alone or in a group.

22. Château de Versailles, France

Château de Versailles showcases 17th-century French luxury. The château and grounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, should be on your France itinerary.

The Château de Versailles’ 2,300 rooms feature France’s best interior design, especially in the Hall of Mirrors. Also important are the King’s State Apartment and Queen’s Apartment.

The 800-hectare château grounds are home to the stunning Gardens. Geometric pathways wind past tranquil pools surrounded by perfectly manicured lawns.

23. Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge makes you wonder what happened 4,500 years ago. It’s a mystery to historians and a draw for visitors. Stonehenge remains mystical despite the many tourists.

The site has two roughly circular patterns of giant stones, some standing and some fallen, to mark the summer and winter solstices. Plan your visit during these times for a memorable experience. Stonehenge is a day trip from London that can be included in your UK itinerary.

24. Forbidden City, China

The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, in Beijing is a must-see destination in China, just like the Great Wall. The sprawling complex, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, is a stunning example of historical China.

Over the centuries, the palace has hosted 24 Ming and Qing Emperors. Inside the city, the Palace Museum houses over 340,000 artifacts depicting China’s dynastic treasures. Tiananmen Square, which stands in front of the Forbidden City, is massive.

25. Corcovado and Cristo Redentor, Rio de Janeiro

Cristo Redentor, a stunning statue on Corcovado mountain, watches over Rio de Janeiro. The 30-meter-tall statue with its arms open in welcome has been a Rio tourist attraction since 1931.

Rio’s harbor is one of the 7 natural wonders. From the 709-meter Corcovado, Sugarloaf Mountain and the city are perfectly positioned for photos. The 3.5-kilometer Corcovado Rack Railway through Tijuca National Park forests is the best way up.

26. Central Park, New York City

Central Park is one of the world’s most famous public spaces, loved by generations of New Yorkers and visitors worldwide. As the setting for countless movies and TV shows, the park’s walkways, lakes, and historical sites have drawn city residents and visitors since 1858.

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, visit Strawberry Fields Forever and the Imagine monument to John Lennon, rent a row boat, or stroll under the towering trees. Ice skating in the park is a popular winter activity in New York. Ice skating with your partner is romantic in New York.

27. Bagan, Myanmar

While this ancient site may not be on the average traveler’s radar, it is one of Southeast Asia’s must-see destinations.

More than 10,000 sacred structures date from 1044 to 1287 and are spread across a lush plain. Rent a bicycle and pedal from one incredible structure to the next, or take a tour. Some of the structures can be entered, but the true beauty lies in the sheer number that dot the landscape.

Consider taking a hot air balloon tour at dawn to get an aerial view.