The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites are excellent options for travel enthusiasts seeking their next adventure.
A World Heritage Site is a protected area deemed culturally significant. Over 1,000 sites are located worldwide and encompass various locales and civilizations. UNESCO World Heritage Sites are ideal for tourists interested in history, science, and architecture.
Consider adding these UNESCO World Heritage Sites to your travel bucket list.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, US
Arizona is home to Grand Canyon National Park, a famous American landmark and road trip destination. The park encompasses a massive gorge extending up to 6,000 feet deep. It is a classic icon of the Old West, attracting millions of annual visitors.
In 1979, the park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Grand Canyon area allows visitors to learn about the natural wonder and how humans engage with it over time. From the fascinating geology to the native wildlife, Grand Canyon National Park has much to discover.
Palace and Park of Versailles, France
The Palace and Park of Versailles boast opulent architecture and expertly manicured gardens. King Louis XIV designed the estate in the early 1600s as a luxurious royal residence. Centuries later, the property is a grand reminder of France’s rich history.
Versailles’s proximity to Paris makes it ideal for a day trip. Famous areas of Versailles include the Hall of Mirrors and the Palace Gardens. Immerse yourself in France’s storied past at this World Heritage Site.
Historic Centre of Vienna, Austria
The Historic Centre of Austria’s capital city is a must-visit on your next European vacation. Vienna, which sits on the Danube River, is a mecca of art and culture and an excellent area for sightseeing.
This picture-perfect UNESCO World Heritage Site has Baroque architecture and sprawling open spaces. Walking through the Vienna Historic Centre will transport you back in time.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, has a unique blend of 15th and 18th-century influences. The city’s contrasting Old and New Town areas represent its varied history. Old Town is famous for its medieval homes and cathedrals, while New Town features neoclassical architecture and public gardens.
Edinburgh is a charming getaway for those interested in European history. Numerous royal palaces, monuments, and museums educate visitors on the town and its importance to Scotland.
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
As the world’s largest coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef is an excellent addition to your Australia itinerary. It is located off the coast of Queensland and encompasses over 133,000 square miles. With so many reefs and islands to explore, snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities are plentiful.
The Great Barrier Reef is a highly biodiverse area home to thousands of marine species. Vibrant coral formations create a complex habitat of fish, sponges, mollusks, plants, and more. The reef’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 has aided efforts to protect the one-of-a-kind ecosystem.
Acropolis of Athens, Greece
Anyone interested in Greek architecture, history, and mythology should consider visiting the Acropolis of Athens. Located on a hill overlooking Athens, the Acropolis is visible from many of the city’s rooftop bars and restaurants. This ancient complex was named a World Heritage Site in 1987 for its religious and cultural significance.
The archaeological ruins of the Acropolis are an excellent place to learn about ancient Greece. Visitors can marvel at the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike while exploring the site. Touring the Acropolis of Athens is an unforgettable afternoon activity.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. This Peruvian site is recognized for its cultural significance and showcases the Inca Empire’s impressive engineering skills.
Machu Picchu has breathtaking scenery, including the Andes Mountains and the Urubamba River. Visiting these Incan ruins is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for global travelers.
Great Wall of China, China
The Great Wall of China is one of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a strategic fortification stretching over 13,000 miles from the eastern city of Shanhaiguan to Jiayuguan in the west. Multiple generations of Chinese emperors oversaw its construction throughout the centuries.
Today, the Great Wall of China is an engaging destination where tourists can witness the country’s diverse landscape. Visiting the site also allows you to understand its significance in ancient Chinese history better.
Pompeii, Italy
Pompeii is a tragic yet fascinating World Heritage Site in southern Italy. In 79 AD, the once-bustling Roman city became buried in ash following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. As a result of the deadly event, Pompeii has been remarkably well-preserved.
Most of the city’s towns and residents were frozen in time by the volcano’s ash and pumice. Excavation of Pompeii has revealed much about ancient Roman life. Despite its grim origins, touring Pompeii is a memorable experience.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
The Galapagos Islands archipelago is a virtually untouched natural area in Ecuador. Many rare plant and animal species call the Islands home, and the area is world-famous for its rugged beauty.
Since the Galapagos Islands are incredibly isolated, they offer a chance to unplug and reconnect with nature. These volcanic islands provide numerous wildlife viewing areas and outdoor recreation.
Petra, Jordan
Petra is a globally recognized symbol of archaeological discovery. This UNESCO Site lies in the desert of southwest Jordan. The history of this captivating city stretches over 2,000 years, dating back to when the ancient Nabatean tribe first founded it.
Hidden in a narrow canyon, Petra features temples and tombs carved into the sandstone walls. The sandstone’s pink and red appearance gave it the nickname Rose City. Petra’s distinct architecture makes planning a trip worthwhile.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is a striking destination for safari adventures. The expansive wildlife sanctuary is home to native African species like zebras, wildebeests, and rhinos. There are over 5,700 square miles of untamed grassland for visitors to explore.
Serengeti National Park is ideal for wildlife safaris. On these thrilling excursions, you can spot animals like elephants and lions. Serengeti’s jaw-dropping landscape is the ideal backdrop for creating lifelong memories.
Chichen Itza, Mexico
One of Mexico’s most significant historical sites is Chichen Itza. In 1988, UNESCO designated these Mayan ruins a World Heritage Site. Remnants of Chichen Itza’s roughly 1,000-year history are evident in its unique architecture.
Visitors can tour ancient temples and monuments throughout Chichen Itza. The site boasts impressive architecture and geometric designs, making Chichen Itza an exciting place to learn about the Yucatan civilization.
Trogir, Croatia
The coastal town of Trogir is a fantastic place to get an authentic taste of Croatian life. It is a scenic destination on the Adriatic Sea with a distinct combination of waterfront views and local landmarks.
Trogir’s ancient city center lies on a small island accessible by various bridges. This historic area contains 13th-century buildings and medieval ruins that tourists will enjoy touring.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious complex. Angkor Wat is a Hindu-Buddhist temple built in the 12th century. Now a World Heritage Site, it’s considered a significant place of spirituality.
The archaeological site comprises over 400 acres in northwest Cambodia. Experiencing the intricate remains of Angkor Wat is truly unforgettable.
Rapa Nui National Park, Chile
Rapa Nui National Park in Chile is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site with mysterious origins. The park is best known for its location on Easter Island. The island is notorious for its carved stone figures called Maoi.
Aside from the Maoi, the national park offers picturesque beaches and volcanoes. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Easter Island or take a guided trek to the summit of a volcano.
European cities offer Old World charm and modern convenience
Europe has many tourist-friendly towns blending ancient history with exciting city life. Consider traveling to a top-rated European city on your next vacation.
Food-loving travelers can have their cake and eat it, too
Food travel is a uniquely delicious way to explore new cities and cultures. Indulgent destinations allow visitors to sample tasty global cuisines.
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
