30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World
Travelers are always looking for inspiration to guide their adventures. Coming up with a list of places to visit can be challenging when you’re staring at a globe. What are the top tourist attractions in the world? The most iconic sites that all travelers have on their bucket-list of things to see around the globe?
Some destinations just stand out above the rest. Many are the type of places where you can take a photo, and it requires no explanation to identify the location: the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum. But some places are less well known to new travelers or those who have not yet ventured out to the more exotic destinations. These can often be the most rewarding to visit.
30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the World
For many of these attractions, it’s what they symbolize and the destinations they represent that make them so significant. In other cases, it is the site itself that makes it worth visiting the country.
If you’re looking to start your own checklist of places to visit during your life, begin with our list of the top tourist attractions in the world.
1. Eiffel Tower, Paris
The Eiffel Tower is a must-see for all travelers. It is the icon of Paris and one of the most photographed landmarks on the planet. This single iron building is one of the few places in the world that inspires such a strong desire to explore.
Young travelers embarking on their first road trip, couples seeking a romantic break, artists seeking inspiration, and romantics of all varieties are all drawn to Paris. This is a place where history and culture combine, and travelers of all types can discover what they’re looking for.
2. The Colosseum, Rome
The Colosseum is the most famous and largest monument left remaining from the Roman Empire, and it is also the most popular tourist attraction in modern-day Rome. For generations, it has been a traveler’s dream destination. And it does not let you down.
The Colosseum is an easy destination to see because it is located in the centre of the city. Rome receives direct flights from all over the world on a regular basis, making it a destination that can be visited in a weekend if desired. Explore Rome’s old streets, take a tour of the Colosseum, and arrange a vacation to other parts of Italy if time permits.
3. Statue of Liberty, New York City
There are many wonderful sights and locations to visit in America, but the Statue of Liberty embodies the United States like no other. In 1896, the French presented the American people with this symbol of independence in New York City.
This is one of the most popular tourist sites in New York City. Taking a ride up to the Statue of Liberty’s crown and taking in the view of the city is the nicest thing to do there. The statue is only accessible by ferry, which is also a highlight of the trip.
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
This is the spot to visit if you only have time to see one attraction in South America. Machu Picchu, the ancient Inca metropolis, is undoubtedly the most spectacular destroyed city in the world.
Much of its allure stems from its setting, high in Peru’s jungle-clad mountains. The location is surreal, sitting on a high plateau with soaring green mountains. The original builders’ sheer determination in creating this wonderful spot in what would have been an impenetrable jungle is astonishing in and of itself.
The experience has been substantially enhanced by limiting visitor numbers to a daily maximum.
5. The Acropolis, Athens
The Acropolis, perched above modern-day Athens, draws you in. As you climb up the same steps that have been walked on since 438 BC – 2,500 years – you will be following in the footsteps of the ancients.
As you travel through the perfectly restored historic structures, the views out over the city are breathtaking. You’ll want to linger at the end of the day to view the sunset from the stairwell near the entryway. In Athens, this is a nightly routine.
Looking up from the city below, the site is also breathtaking. Spend an evening dining on a rooftop patio while taking in the vista of the illuminated hilltop ruins.
6. The Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is a must-see attraction for all visitors to India. The country is full with beautiful cities and fantastic locations to explore, but the Taj Mahal, built in the 17th century, is the only way to say you’ve been to India.
This tomb, built for Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal, is regarded as a symbol of love around the world. This magnificent edifice, formed of precious and semi-precious stones inlaid, must be seen in person to be completely appreciated.
The Taj Mahal’s riverbank location, surrounding gardens, and reflecting ponds add to its allure.
7. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
You might believe you know a lot about historic sites if you’ve been to the Colosseum in Rome or the Acropolis in Athens, both of which were built over 2,000 years ago. The Pyramids of Giza, on the other hand, take ancient to a whole new level. These structures date back over 4,500 years. Thousands of years ago, tourists flocked to visit these majestic monuments.
The pyramids, which include the Sphinx and are located just outside of Cairo, are easy to reach and trips are simple to schedule. A camel ride around the structures at sunset is a fantastic experience.
8. Great Wall of China
The Great Wall of China, built between the 14th and 17th centuries, is a sharp contrast in a world of contemporary cities and towering skyscrapers, but it is a striking spectacle that all visitors to China should see.
A walk up the top of the wall offers a spectacular perspective of the construction stretching off into the horizon. The wall runs for a whopping 21,196 kilometers, passing through some of the world’s most remote locations.
Many tourists visiting China opt for easy-to-organize excursions to the Great Wall from Beijing, which is only a short bus trip away.
9. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Some visitors may mistake the ancient structures of the Angkor complex for a movie set because they are surrounded by forest and, in some cases, covered with gigantic trees and roots.
It’s easy to feel transported to another age while wandering through Angkor Wat, the complex’s major attraction. This is without a doubt one of Southeast Asia’s most magnificent attractions, and the major reason many people travel to Cambodia.
The imagery of stone faces peeking out over the buildings and gates will stay with you for a long time.
10. Petra, Jordan
As you go through a 1.2-kilometer-long small crack in the sandstone hills and emerge into a buried city, you could feel like Indiana Jones. The city was created almost 2,000 years ago and was finally discovered in 1812 after being lost to the outer world for 600 years.
Stunning structures have been cut straight into the red rock walls and are in excellent condition, asking to be explored and photographed.
An eerie calm, along with long shadows, gives this abandoned city a unique air if you visit early.
11. Grand Canyon, USA
The greatest natural attraction in the United States, the Grand Canyon is a key sight for all travelers planning their lifetime of adventures. Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, looking out over the carved landscape, will awaken your senses.
Several hikes in the canyon and along the rim offer unique perspectives. Walk even a short distance down the Bright Angel trail to gain additional views and to experience what the canyon is like below the rim.
For even more adventure plan a rafting trip down the Colorado River through the canyon.
The Grand Canyon looks different throughout the day and at different times of the year. One trip is never enough. If you are going to add this place to your to-see list, consider what you want to do here to determine the best time to visit.
12. Stonehenge, England
Stonehenge is one of those settings where you can’t help but wonder what happened over 4,500 years ago. Historians have long been puzzled by it, and it has piqued the interest of innumerable tourists. Despite the vast number of tourists who visit Stonehenge, the site has a mysterious atmosphere.
Giant stones, some standing, some fallen, are arranged in two roughly circular patterns at the site, with the summer and winter solstices prominently displayed. Visit during one of these times for a genuinely unforgettable experience.
Stonehenge is an easy day excursion from London and may easily be incorporated into any UK itinerary.
13. Borobudur, Indonesia
Borobudur is Indonesia’s main tourist destination, set in a sweltering jungle with three volcanoes as a backdrop.
Borobudur is one of the world’s largest Buddhist temples, dating from the 9th century. It’s an interesting spot to explore. Over 500 Buddhas may be found throughout the site, some of which are housed within beautiful stupas.
Early in the morning is the greatest time to visit because you’ll have the best opportunity of seeing some early mist and the view of the volcanoes will be the clearest.
14. Niagara Falls, Canada & USA
For ages, explorers and tourists have been drawn to these majestic falls on the boundary between the United States and Canada. Niagara Falls is only about an hour’s drive from Toronto, and the town is a pleasant destination to spend a night or two.
Take a boat excursion to get a closer look at the water rushing over the gorge’s lip, go up to the edge of the falls, or stroll along the paved path lining the gorge for diverse perspectives. Take a ride up the Skylon Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the falls.
At night, the falls are illuminated in a variety of hues. During your visit in the winter, keep an eye out for the massive plume of mist rising into the sky above the falls.
15. Bagan, Myanmar
While this historic site may not be on the average traveler’s radar, it is another must-see in Southeast Asia.
More than 10,000 religious monuments, dating from 1044 to 1287, are strewn across a luxuriant plain. Take a tour or rent a bicycle and bike your way from one spectacular structure to the next. Some of the structures can be entered, but the sheer number of them that dot the countryside is the true beauty.
Consider a dawn hot air balloon ride for a unique Aieral view.
16. Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, like many other tourist destinations around the world, is easily identifiable and clearly connected with Australia. A selfie in front of the white sails screams “Australia.”
The Sydney Opera House was built in phases and opened to the public in late 1973. Take a tour of the interior to view the building’s distinctive shape and hear the amazing acoustics.
Take in the view from the Opera House area of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is world-famous.
17. Mount Kilimanjaro
This spectacular mountain — a dormant volcano – is Africa’s tallest peak and one of the continent’s most recognizable icons. The snowcapped peak rises to a height of 5,985 meters (19,340 feet) and is frequently used as a backdrop for photos of the wild animals that wander Amboseli National Park and surrounding areas.
You may admire this stunning scene from afar or take a multi-day walk to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro for spectacular views of the surrounding area and to witness the dawn.
18. The Louvre, Paris
The Louvre is the one museum in the world that you must see at least once in your life. Even if you aren’t a museum aficionado, this one is well worth the trip to Paris to visit.
Although most people know it as the site of the world’s most famous artwork, the Mona Lisa, the Louvre has many other attractions.
Countless works by the greatest painters of all time can be found at the museum. However, the structure itself is a landmark. Almost everyone recognizes the glass pyramids and the 18th-century structure, which has been featured in numerous films.
19. Forbidden City, China
The Forbidden City in Beijing, commonly known as the Imperial Palace, is one of China’s most popular tourist destinations, along with the Great Wall. The sprawling building is a stunning example of medieval China, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries.
The palace has housed 24 Ming and Qing Emperors over the ages. The Palace Museum, located within the city, houses about 340,000 relics showcasing the riches of China’s dynasties. The vast Tiananmen Square stands in front of the Forbidden City.
20. Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Prague Castle, which sits on a hill across the river from the city’s center, exudes an imposing presence. The castle is a magnificent collection of structures dating from the ninth to the fourteenth centuries.
Stroll across the elegant 14th-century Charles Bridge, which spans the Vltava River, and up the hill to explore the castle complex’s narrow, tortuous lanes. The castle is one of the largest in the world, and there is a historical building, church, or open plaza at practically every corner.
21. Chichen Itza, Mexico
Since a popular book by John Lloyd Stevens in 1843 first brought the ancient Mayan remains of Chichen Itza to light, they have attracted fascinated tourists. The site, which lies at the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations.
Many of the important buildings, like the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the spooky Skull Platform, have been restored to their former magnificence, including the 30-meter-high Pyramid of Kukulkán.
Chichen Itza is located about 200 kilometers from Cancun and is easily accomplished in a day trip from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other areas of the Mayan Riviera either on your own or as part of a group.
22. Corcovado and Cristo Redentor, Rio de Janeiro
The beautiful statue of Cristo Redentor, perched atop Corcovado mountain, keeps a vigilant eye on the residents of Rio de Janeiro. Since 1931, this massive 30-meter-high statue has been one of Rio’s most popular tourist attractions, with its arms wide spread in a welcoming gesture.
Rio de Janeiro’s port is one of the world’s seven natural wonders. The views from the top of the 709-meter Corcovado gaze out over this lovely scene, including Sugarloaf Mountain and the city, which are well positioned for stunning images. The best method to get to the top is to take the 3.5-kilometer Corcovado Rack Railway up through the Tijuca National Park’s trees.
23. Château de Versailles, France
The spectacular Château de Versailles displays the richness and splendor of 17th-century France. The château and grounds are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and should be on your list of things to see in France.
The Château de Versailles features an incredible 2,300 rooms, including the world-famous Hall of Mirrors, which houses some of France’s most stunning interior design work. The King’s State Apartment and the Queen’s Apartment are two more prominent rooms.
The grounds of the château encompass 800 hectares, and one of the most impressive sights is the Gardens (Les Jardins). Geometrical pathways follow immaculately trimmed hedges past serene pools all surrounded by lawns cut to within an inch of their life.
24. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s most famous and highest peak. This dormant volcano, which is frequently photographed snowcapped, is a spiritual place as well as one of Japan’s top tourist attractions. Mount Fuji, at 3,776 meters high, is one of three Holy Mountains that are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Hiking to the mountain’s peak is a common activity in Japan. Nearly 300,000 people each year take one of four paths to the summit. One of the most popular activities is to time your hike to arrive at the summit right before sunrise.
Mount Fuji is 100 kilometers east of Tokyo and may be reached via public transportation or tours.
25. Central Park, New York City
Central Park is one of the most recognized public parks in the world, beloved by generations of New Yorkers and visitors from all over the world. Since its inception in 1858, the park’s walks, lakes, and historical sights have attracted city people and visitors alike.
Taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, visiting the Strawberry Fields Forever area and the Imagine monument dedicated to the late John Lennon, renting a row boat, or simply strolling under the towering trees are all wonderful things to do in Central Park. Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in New York if you find yourself in the park during the chilly season. In New York, ice skating with your sweetheart is also a romantic activity.
26. Topkapı Palace, Turkey
Topkapi Palace is located in one of the oldest historical regions of Istanbul. Located on the historical Istanbul peninsula between the Marmara Sea, the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn, the palace is one of the iconic structures of Istanbul.
Topkapı Palace, established on an area of 700,000 square meters on the Eastern Roman acropolis in Sarayburnu, was the administrative, educational and artistic center of the empire for approximately four hundred years from Fatih Sultan Mehmet to the 31st Sultan Abdülmecid, as well as housing the dynasty. Although Topkapı Palace was gradually abandoned by the mid-19th century when the dynasty slowly moved to Dolmabahçe Palace, it preserved its historical importance and value.
After the founding of the Republic of Turkey, Topkapı Palace was converted into a museum on April 3, 1924, having the distinction of being the first museum of the Republic. Today, Topkapı Palace is one of the largest palace-museums in the world with its buildings, architecture, collections and approximately 300,000 archive documents.
27. Rome, Italy
The Eternal City resembles a massive, living museum. Thousands of years of history are immersed and surrounds visitors. It’s a small city, so a three-day plan will allow you to explore the most important sights.
The Colosseum and surrounding Roman Forum, the Pantheon, and Vatican City, a separate country in the middle of central Rome, are all must-see sites for any visitor.
Spend some time exploring Rome’s outskirts as well. Consider a trek along a portion of the Appian Way, the ancient Roman expressway, that is lined with tombs, as well as a visit to one of the city’s aqueduct remnants.
If you get tired of touring and want to relax, the Lazio Coast boasts a superb selection of beach villages just a short drive away from Rome. Bathe in the cold waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea to escape the heat, rush, and bustle of the city.
28. Cartagena, Columbia
Along Colombia’s north coast, vibrant Cartagena, one of the major historical Spanish capitals of the Caribbean, bursts with energy. Its historic walled city, founded in 1533, has seen its fortunes rise and fall throughout the years, and has recently undergone a rebirth and revitalization.
Once decaying 16th-century structures have been brought back to life as modern, yet historically significant hotels, world-class restaurants, and stores as part of a major renovation of the old city. Explore the city’s small streets in search of a spectacular cathedral, an open plaza with public art, or an eccentric boutique selling the perfect souvenir.
Take a stroll along the historic city walls, and while you watch the sun set over the ocean, imagine what life was like nearly 500 years ago.
Cartagena is easily accessible from the United States, with daily flights from Miami and excellent connections via Panama City. From practically anyplace in North America, this is the ideal destination for an exotic long weekend escape.
29. Istanbul, Turkey
Another place with a superb blend of culture, food, and history is Turkey’s economic capital city. Thousands of years of history may be found here, beginning with the Ancient Greeks and Romans and continuing through the Ottoman Empire.
Unlike everywhere else, this place has a unique blend of the new and the classic. You can spend the day shopping and the evening at a lovely restaurant eating delicious Turkish cuisine and dancing to Turkish music, then wake up to the sound of the Ezan, or Islamic call to prayer, in the morning. It reverberates across the city’s roofs, relayed from loudspeakers atop the city’s mosque minarets.
Istanbul offers great public transportation, making it simple to move around and see all of the city’s key attractions. The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sofia, and Topkapi Palace are all must-sees.
30. Marrakesh, Morocco
Begin your exploration of Marrakech in the Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s main open square. It’s the entrance to the old walled city, or medina. The square is unlike any other in the globe, with a constant display of humanity. Musical acts, snake charmers, monkey trainers, amateur boxing fights, and transvestite belly dancers are among the attractions.
It also serves as a large food market, as well as an antiques and swap meet. You can also get a haircut or have your teeth cleaned. There are fire performers at night, and an outdoor food fair with rows of food vendors fronted by counters lined with chairs is put up in the center.
Most major European cities are only a short flight away from this fascinating African location (typically less than four hours). There are numerous flights available because it is a popular getaway spot. The accommodations range from riads, which are traditional dwellings that have been converted into luxury boutique hotels in the medina, to five-star luxury resorts in the La Palmeraie area just outside the city.