The 27 famous landmarks and places in the world to visit

Planning the trip of a lifetime outside the UK? Whether you’re setting off on a gap year to explore the world, or finally getting to do your bucket list adventure, you’ll need some inspiration for where to go and what to see. After all, there’s a whole planet out there.

Read on for our roundup of the 27 most famous landmarks and places in the world you simply must visit. These are the iconic sights and spectacles both natural and man-made that any traveller should see at least once.

And before you set off on your dream trip, make sure you have your travel money sorted. Get the Wise card and you can spend abroad just like a local, for low fees and fair exchange rates. There’s no need to juggle multiple currencies in cash, as all you need is one handy piece of plastic.

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The 27 famous landmarks and places in the world to visit

1: Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

One of the most recognisable structures on the planet, the Eiffel Tower is an iconic landmark watching over the French capital. It was built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of the French Revolution.

It’s a monumental sight from the ground (especially when lit up at night) but it also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation decks. So unless you’re a little wobbly about heights, make sure you go up to the top.

2: Taj Mahal, Agra, India

Built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in 1648 as a testament to love, this staggeringly beautiful white marble mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Taj Mahal complex is an architectural marvel and an artistic masterpiece, with intricate details, symmetry and a scale that will make you gasp. In fact, it’s considered to be one of the most beautiful and accomplished examples of Indo-Islamic art and architecture found anywhere in the world.

3: Machu Picchu, Peru

Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is an ancient Inca city that was hidden for centuries before being discovered in 1911. Exploring the well-preserved ruins of this once-mighty citadel feels like stepping back in time, with the added bonus of breathtaking mountain vistas to marvel at.

4: Great Wall of China, China

Stretching an incredible 13,000 miles, the Great Wall of China is an awe-inspiring feat of engineering. Parts of it date back to the 7th century BC, although it was only finished in 1878.

Designed to protect China’s northern empire from attack, the wall is one of the longest man made structures on the planet. Walking along its ancient paths is quite the experience, although you’ll need to pack some sturdy walking shoes.

5: Statue of Liberty, New York City, USA

A truly iconic symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty stands tall over New York Harbor and welcomes visitors and new arrivals to the United States.

This colossal neoclassical sculpture was a gift from the people of France, made from several tonnes of copper (which now has a verdigris appearance due to oxidation over time). It was dedicated in 1886 and made a National Monument in 1924.

Once you’ve admired Lady Liberty from the ground, climb to her crown for incredible views of the city skyline.

6: Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Once a grand amphitheatre, the Colosseum is a testament to the power and engineering prowess of ancient Rome. As you explore its ruins in the heart of the modern city of Rome, where it has stood for nearly 2,000 years, you can imagine the gladiatorial battles that once took place in this infamous arena.

7: Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Egypt

As the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, the Pyramids of Giza are a precious historical and architectural treasure. These monumental tombs, built as the final resting place for Ancient Egypt’s most powerful rulers, have stood for over 4,500 years.

You can look at photos, but there’s nothing like being there in person to appreciate the enormous size and mysterious power of the pyramids - while also learning about ancient Egyptian civilization.

8: Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia

A striking masterpiece of modern architecture, the Sydney Opera House is renowned for its unique sail-like design. It’s a feast for the eyes from outside, where you’ll need to see it from different angles to drink in every detail. But you can also step inside to catch a performance or take a guided tour of the interiors.

And while you’re there, check out Sydney Harbour Bridge. It’s an impressive piece of engineering and an iconic part of the harbour landscape - and you can even climb to the top for exhilarating experience and amazing views. If you have a head for heights, of course.

9: Petra, Jordan

Carved into vibrant red rock and surrounded by desert, the Lost City of Petra is an ancient city undiscovered by the Western World for centuries. This once thriving metropolis dates back to the fourth century BC, and now lies in (impressively preserved ruins).

Known as the ‘rose city’, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers surprises and treasures at every turn, from intricate facades to secret passages. It’s one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, and one of the new wonders of the world.

10: Santorini, Greece

There may be more vital, vibrant and interesting places to visit in Greece, but nowhere does the idealised picture-postcard paradise version of Hellenic island life quite like Santorini. If you’re only going to visit one Greek island, and you want definitive content for your Insta, Santorini has your back.

Wind through the historic narrow streets of Oia, hike uphill for views of the island’s famous blue and whitewashed houses and windmills, and watch a once-in-lifetime sunset over the island’s volcanic caldera - ideally from your own private plunge pool, with a glass of ouzo in your hand.

11: Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat is another must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an enormous Buddhist temple complex spread across 400 acres, with history dating back to the 12th century. One of the best times to see it is early morning, as the sun rises majestically over the temple complex.

12: The Acropolis, Athens, Greece

Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the city of Athens, the Acropolis is home to the iconic Parthenon and other notable ancient ruins. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site which has been a citadel, home to kings and an important religious centre. It’s worth the hike up to the site for the chance to immerse yourself in Ancient Greece and the country’s rich history.

13: Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA

Straddling the border between Canada and the United States, Niagara Falls is a natural wonder of breathtaking beauty. You can feel the incredible power of thousands of tonnes of water thundering over the three falls, the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. If you don’t mind getting a bit wet, you can take a boat tour and experience Niagara’s power up close.

14: The Louvre, Paris, France

Housing thousands of works of art, including the iconic Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Louvre is one of the world's largest and most-visited art museums.

It has one of the most extensive collections on the planet, so you might need an entire day to wander through its vast halls and see it all. Expect masterpieces from different eras and works from diverse cultures, along with objects from ancient civilisations.

15: The Alhambra, Granada, Spain

A testament to Moorish architecture, the Alhambra is a stunning palace complex set against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Its name means ‘red castle’, due to its striking reddish hue.

The Alhambra is an ancient fortress and citadel, with a history dating back to the 8th century. It’s one of the most famous and best-preserved examples of Islamic architecture, with intricate courtyards, gardens and beautiful tile mosaics.

16: The Vatican City, Rome, Italy

The world's smallest independent state, the Vatican City is the spiritual and administrative centre of the Roman Catholic Church.

It’s a hugely important site in terms of its religious, historical and artistic significance, and home to countless must-see landmarks. This includes

St. Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel with its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

17: The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

An underwater paradise, the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world. It’s enormously important from an ecological perspective, due to its incredible biodiversity - which is in urgent need of conservation. The reef is home to thousands of species of coral, fish and other marine life. It’s also extremely beautiful, so a dive or snorkel excursion is a must if you’re in this part of the world.

18: The Amazon Rainforest, South America

An adventure to the world's largest tropical rainforest truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. As well as being home to an incredible array of plant and animal species, the Amazon also provides a huge 20% of the world’s oxygen.¹

The best way to see and learn about it (and perhaps spot one of its wild inhabitants) is on a guided tour into the lush greens of the rainforest or along the famous Amazon River.

19: The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Embark on a safari adventure in the vast Serengeti, known for its vast savannahs, wide open skies and incredible wildlife. It’s also where you’ll find one of the most impressive sights on earth, the annual ‘Great Migration’ of wildebeest and zebra.

20: The Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is a natural wonder of dramatic proportions. It’s a mile deep, and more than 270 miles long. The gorge is believed to have been formed around 5-6 million years ago.

There are lots of ways to experience the Canyon for yourself, whether hiking along its rim or taking a helicopter tour for unforgettable views.

21: The Great Sphinx of Giza, Cairo, Egypt

Guarding the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx is a monumental statue with the body of a lion and the face of a pharaoh. The limestone statue of this mysterious mythical creature is one of the largest sculptures in the world, believed to date back to the reign of King Khafre. It’s remarkably well-preserved, although the nose has deteriorated over time.

22: The Christ the Redeemer Statue, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Standing atop Corcovado Mountain with arms outstretched, the Christ the Redeemer statue is an iconic symbol of Rio de Janeiro. It’s an Art Deco design by French sculptor Paul Landowski, which looks down over the city. You can enjoy it from below, but it’s best to make the climb for the panoramic views of the city.

23: The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA

Spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge with some seriously impressive engineering credentials. The vivid red bridge has also become a symbol of the city, and is best enjoyed at a distance for the very best photos - although it’s also a great experience to walk or cycle across.

24: The Forbidden City, Beijing, China

Once the imperial palace of China's Ming and Qing dynasties, the Forbidden City is a vast complex of opulent buildings and beautiful gardens. Built between 1406 and 1420, it was the political centre of China for over 500 years and home to no fewer than 24 emperors and their families.

25: La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain

This Spanish church is a building like no other. Located in the Eixample district of Barcelona in Catalonia, it was designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi before construction began in 1882.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was never finished, although it stands as one of the most remarkable examples of Expressionist architecture and design in the world. There’s so much to see, including complex, detailed and symbolic forests of piers, twisted towers, vaults and flying buttresses.

26: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Italy

Famous for its lurching lean, the Leaning Tower has put the Italian town of Pisa on the map. It was designed to be perfectly vertical, but leans due to an unstable foundation. It’s one of Italy’s most famous and certainly most photographed landmarks.

27: The Tower of London, London, UK

Last but not least, if you don’t want to travel far to see famous landmarks, visit the Tower of London (if you haven’t already).

Step back in time at the Tower of London, a historic fortress with a dark past. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 to demonstrate Norman might, the tower sits on the Thames (next to the equally famous Tower Bridge and is the gateway to the city.

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Feeling inspired? Hopefully after reading this, you’ll have lots of ideas to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Wherever your travels take you, make sure you have the Wise card in your pocket. It’s tailor-made for international travel, letting you spend abroad in different currencies for low fees and fair mid-market exchange rates.

You can use it wherever cards are accepted, including at ATMs whenever you need cash.

So whether you’re buying a ticket to the Louvre or booking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, you’ll have a convenient, low-cost way to pay.

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

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Sources used:

1. Culture Trip - 16 Reasons Why Exploring the Amazon Rainforest Is the Trip of a Lifetime

Sources last checked on date: 23-Jun-2023