When traveling the world, you want a taste of a country’s culture, from its oldest days to the present. One way to do this is by visiting area museums and historical sites. There are some sites you’ll find yourself learning more than you ever imagined. Then, other sites are simply too good to pass up, even if you’re not a big history buff.
This list is full of some of the best historical sites from around the world that you’ll want to put on your bucket list. Not only will you get a taste of history from each one of these sites, but they’ll offer you more than you ever imagined. The descriptions about them in this list can only do them so much justice – you really need to see them for yourself:
20. The Colosseum, Rome
You know about the Colosseum from your days learning about Ancient Rome in school. After a decade, the Ancient Romans finally finished the Colosseum and quickly started to celebrate. It became famous as a gladiatorial battleground, a sport that Ancient Romans loved. Fearless warriors entered the Colosseum ready to battle tigers, lions, and other animals that could rip them to shreds. While the seats, canopies above the seats, and the floor are gone, the rest remains intact.
As one of the most popular sites in the world and the most popular place in Italy, you can’t avoid crowds. However, there are fewer crowds during the coldest months of the year when people don’t tend to take family vacations.
19. Chichen Itza, Mexico
One of the oldest civilizations to see how people lived thousands of years ago is the Mayans. Their biggest mark left in the world is located in Chichen Itza, Mexico. At the time, the Mayans used the temple as a place of human sacrifice, a practice that many civilizations used for various reasons. While most people feel this is a horrible practice today, during the days of the Mayans, people wanted to become the chosen one for sacrifice as they saw it a privilege.
Today, you can look up the stone steps and imagine heads rolling off the stairs and onto the ground, where people would continue to celebrate and honor the sacrifice. One of the best times to go is in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds start dying down. You can get up close and personal with the temple. While you can visit the temple any time during the year, the best months are May and June.
18. The Great Wall of China
The rumor is the Great Wall of China is the only structure made from the hands of men that can be seen as far away as space. Unfortunately, you can’t see the structure without particular imagery, but this doesn’t take away from the fact it’s an incredible historic structure you must put on your list. The wall is a series of fortification systems that protect and consolidate territories of Chinese states and empires against any enemies. Its size is 13,171 miles or 21,196 kilometers and received its World Heritage Site designation in 1987.
The main entrance is in Beijing and one of the busiest spots. However, it’s also the best location to start seeing the Great Wall. But because it’s so massive, you have several areas where you can view it. Because the wall literally covers about half of China, there are spots you can find to see the wall and avoid herds of people.
17. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro
Christ the Redeemer is an Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. French sculptor Paul Landowski created the statue while Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa helped build the statue. Other people who worked on it include French engineer Albert Caquot and Romanian sculptor Gheorghe Leonida, who established the face. Today the figure is known as a symbol of peace, and people from all over the world travel to Christ the Redeemer to pay their respects, pray, and thank Jesus.
Because most of the original wonders of the world don’t exist anymore, the people of the world established seven new wonders, and Christ the Redeemer made that list. It’s definitely not only one of the most popular sights to see in the world, but the most popular tourist attraction in Brazil. In fact, thousands of people visit the site daily, and they had since its establishment in 1931. The statue is 124 feet, or 38 meters, high and the third-tallest emblem of Christ in existence.
16. Timbuktu, Mali
This is a real place in Mali and one of the most spectacular locations you could ever set your eyes on. Timbuktu is known as one of the eight administrative regions of Mali, which has a population of close to 55,000. The architecture of Timbuktu resembles a sandcastle, which makes many people look twice at the enormous structure as they think they’re on the beach.
Before you travel to Timbuktu, you need to check with your government and see the conditions of Mali because terrorism is high in the area. In fact, one terrorist group ruined part of the structure back in 2012. While security is tighter in the area now, you don’t want to get caught in a firestorm, and it’s something many locals worry about. However, if you do take a trip, the best times with fewer people and the weather is the best is between April and May.
15. Taj Mahal, India
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) made one of the most impressive historical structures in the world, the Taj Mahal, a World Heritage Site. You’ve heard about this historic site throughout your life and might have seen pictures. However, did you know that it was built as an epic symbol of love? That’s right, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan requested the building so everyone could honor his late wife. Developers made sure they built the Taj Mahal as a perfect building from its columns to its dome.
Today, when you stand in front of the building, you’ll be in awe of its unusual structure and how beautiful it looks. The marble mausoleum is truly one of the most amazing structures anyone can see, and the pictures don’t do it justice. Millions of people visit the Taj Mahal every year to get a picture standing in front of it or sitting on the bench Princess Diana sat on during her visit. The best time to go is during sunrise or sunset, not only because there are fewer people, but because the Taj Mahal is in its best light during these times.
14. Leshan Giant Buddha, China
If you want to see a giant Buddha, you need to head over to Leshan, China. You could visit the Great Wall of China and the giant Buddha in one trip. This monument is 71 meters or 232 feet high and built between 713 and 803. The giant Buddha is over 1,200 years old and people can only guess how many years it took to build. The origin of the story is about a monk who wanted to calm the raging river, which worked as rocks fell from the cliff. The site became a World Heritage Site in 1996.
It’s challenging to find a time when there aren’t many people. However, during the spring and fall, the temperatures are more favorable. While there’s usually a line to get down the steps, early morning and later in the afternoon are the times where the line is its shortest.
13. Petra, Jordan
Usually, when people develop a building, it’s made from bricks, stone, and rock. While Petra is made from rock, it’s not exactly the type of building you’re thinking. Petra is carved into the face of the mountain. The whole building is constructed from the front of the mountain around 300 B.C. and became the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Many people are surprised by how well Petra continues to stand, as there are little repairs people can do.
UNESCO awarded Petra the title of a World Heritage Site in 1985. They do everything they can to keep Petra looking as it should. Because of its uniqueness, Petra is one of the busiest tourist attractions in Jordan. The best times to go are in the spring and fall. There are a couple of ways you can get there, such as a bus, but many locals state you should take the seven-hour camel ride. While you might be in pain for a while afterward, it’s worth the experience.
12. Blue Mosque, Istanbul
The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, came into existence between 1609 and 1616 and is still a functioning Mosque. The ruler of Turkey during the mosque’s construction, Ahmed I, is buried within the mosque in his tomb. Not only is the Blue Mosque considered the most important mosque in Istanbul, but it’s also the historic landmark of Islam. The tiles on the inside of the mosque are hand-painted six impressive minarets instead of the usual two to four like most Mosques.
In reality, there’s no wrong time to visit the Blue Mosque. Because of its gorgeous construction, color, and location, you can easily see it once you come into Istanbul, Turkey. However, some people really enjoy the sights during sunrise or sunset. If you get there early or late enough, crowds are lower than average.
11. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge is another historical location that many people know about but rarely go because they can find pictures on the Internet. However, Stonehenge makes this list because the images simply aren’t good enough, and it’s genuinely a location you must see. It’s one of the biggest mysteries in the world. Not even the most experienced archeologists and researchers know how Stonehenge came into existence.
One of the best and busiest times to go is during the summer solstice because England hosts a massive event around Stonehenge. Other great times to include late spring or early fall. Be prepared for rain because England can never guarantee you the best weather. But you’ll always enjoy the sights of Stonehenge no matter what type of weather you run into.
10. Statue of Liberty, United States of America
The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island. It’s the sight every immigrant wants to see when they come to the United States. Of course, every person in the world should head over to the Great Lady Liberty. Best known for her aged green patina, the statue came to the United States from France as a peace offering in 1886.
One of the best times to make your way over to the Statue of Liberty is between April and October when the weather is decent. Most people jump on the ferry between 10 and 11 in the morning, so this is the time when it’s busiest. However, it’s also the best time to go so you can see everything possible when it comes to Lady Liberty.
9. Moai Heads, Easter Island, Chile
If you like historical sites that bring much mystery, you need to go from Stonehenge to the Moai Heads in Chile. While researchers know more about these heads than they do about Stonehenge, they’re still incredibly cool and mysterious. Recently, researchers noted that these Moai Heads are more than just heads. They actually have bodies underneath the ground and came from volcanic rock. This means that over the next few generations, they will continue to erode, and people will feel more mystery around the heads.
Easter Island, where the heads are located in Chile, is somewhat remote, so it’s not the easiest place to get to. However, so many people visit the Moai Heads, so it’s not impossible, you just need to plan because people don’t visit the heads in groups. On the plus side, this means that whenever you go, you don’t need to worry about a large crowd. Still, the best time for weather is during the summer.
8. Machu Picchu, Peru
Like other names on this list, you’ve heard of Machu Picchu but probably didn’t always realize it’s one of the most amazing historical sites that you could ever see. Even though your trip there might not be the most comfortable, once you reach your destination, you won’t want to turn back.
It can get rather hot during the summer months at Machu Picchu, which makes the journey even more uncomfortable for so many people. If you’re not interested in warm weather and large crowds, then you will want to avoid June through August. If you do come during these months, going early in the morning or later in the afternoon is your best choice.
7. Borobudur Temple Compounds, Indonesia
Borobudur Temple Compounds is one of the most unique historical structures in the world. Developed as one of the most massive Buddhist structures between the 8th and 9th centuries C.E., it holds over 500 Buddhist statues. Some countless platforms and domes help bring the whole structure together. Like so many other places on this list, it’s a World Heritage Site, designated in 1991.
As a historical and holy structure, Borobudur Temple is known to help people feel at peace the second they enter the location. It’s truly a beautiful place with fantastic symmetry that you shouldn’t pass up. The best time to view this structure is before 6:00 in the morning so you can sit in peace and watch the sunrise. It’s also a great time because you’ll beat the tourist crowds. You should also go between November and March. While these are the colder months, Indonesia stays rather nice, and other than some rain, it’s a quieter location than the summer months.
6. Wat Rong Khun, Thailand
From a distance, your children who love the Disney movie Frozen might think they’re walking up to Elsa’s ice castle. Wat Rong Khun is known as the “White Temple” and located in the northern part of Thailand. It’s a privately-owned art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple that opened to visitors in 1997. It’s a temple that’s filled with Buddhist teaching. Its sculptures include everything from tusks to skulls but also includes modern-day characters such as Hello Kitty.
You can visit the temple during any time, and you just need to remember that it’s considered a holy ground for many people so you always need to be respectful. If you don’t want to deal with Thailand’s wet climate, the best months to go are between December and February. Fortunately, this is also when people are less likely to visit, so you won’t need to worry about crowds as well.
5. Acropolis of Athens, Greece
Many places around the world date back to the fifth century B.C. and one of them you must see is Acropolis in Greece. Part of the Ancient Greek world, the Acropolis, was the ancient citadel that Greeks used when they worshipped their gods. The Acropolis contains the remains of several old buildings of historical significance and magnificent architecture. One of the most famous buildings on the Acropolis is the Parthenon.
Greek officials do everything they can to make sure the buildings of the Acropolis are well cared for so millions of people can continue to view Ancient Greek history. When to go depends on what type of weather you want. If you don’t mind hot weather, then go during the summer months. However, if you’d instead wander around in colder weather and fewer crowds, then you’d go between November and March.
4. Mont-Saint-Michel, France
Le Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island located about one kilometer or half a mile off of France’s northwestern coast. Basically, Mont-Saint-Michel is a castle on the island and one of the most notorious castles in the world, which is why it makes this list. You really need to plan your trip to this castle and not let crowds bother you because you can only leave to see it during low tide. Built in 1523, it’s a gothic style castle that people absolutely love, especially up close and personal.
Fortunately, there are a lot of low tides during the day, and you can view the castle at any time. Therefore, if you really want to go when the crowds are at their lowest, you want to leave right away in the morning but before 9:00. It’s around this time that people come and wait for low tide.
3. Temple Mount, Jerusalem
Some people refer to Temple Mount in Jerusalem as Haram esh-Sharif or the Al Aqsa Compound. It holds significance for many religious people, but also history buffs and others who love old structures. The Temple Mount is hard to miss because it’s located on a hill in the Old City of Jerusalem. It has a glistening gold dome that can cause you to feel like you’re about to become blind if the sun is hitting it just right. People come here from all over the world to try to understand the supposed mythical powers that the building holds.
Temple Mount has limited visiting hours between 3 hours in the morning and 1 hour in the afternoon. Therefore, you need to plan your visit ahead of time and deal with enormous crowds. This is a sacred site for Muslims, Christians, and Jews, so you must remain respectful while on the grounds.
2. Persepolis, Iran
Persepolis in Iran was once known as the wealthiest city in the world. It held the palace of the King of Kings in Fars Province and the seat of the Persian Empire. Unfortunately, the town burned in 330 B.C. because of Alexander the Great, but this didn’t stop people from wanting to rebuild. While rebuilding never happened, people did leave the town in ruins, and for this, we are incredibly grateful. Not only does it prove Alexander the Great burned the city to ruins, but it also helped preserve an ancient town.
For years, people didn’t know about Persepolis until archaeologists discovered it under a lot of sand, which helped with the preservation. Today, you can visit the ruins anytime and don’t usually have to deal with too big of a crowd. However, it can become rather hot, and you can quickly become overheated, which means you always want to have plenty of water.
1. The Pyramids, Egypt
You’ve heard about the Great Pyramids in Giza, a fantastic historical site that is genuinely too good to miss. For centuries, people have wanted to know how the pyramids got there, who built them, and how. Several myths surround the construction of the pyramids from natural disasters to slaves constructed them for royalty. However, all of these are simply myths and no one knows the real tale.
Each one of the pyramids’ many bricks weighs over 3 tons, which makes people believe that man couldn’t have put the monuments together. The largest and oldest is Khufu’s Pyramid, or the Great Pyramid, coming in at 481 feet above the sand. Between June to September is the wrong time to go because temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and you don’t have shelter to stay cool. The other months of the year are much more comfortable. No matter when you go, you’ll run into massive crowds.
Sources:
“Top 10 Historical Places of the World.” Best Toppers. December 2013.
“THE TOP 15 HISTORICAL SITES IN THE WORLD.” Matt, Nomadic Matt. February 2020.
“17 Top World Heritage Sites.” Lana Law, Planet Ware. September 2019.
“24 Historical Sites That Are Too Good To Miss.” Becky Coe, Rough Maps. April 2019.