10 Must-Visit Historical Sites Around the World You Didn’t Know You Needed to See

For history buffs and curious travelers alike, there’s something truly special about stepping into the past and experiencing historical landmarks firsthand. Whether it’s ancient ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or hidden gems not often found on the typical tourist itinerary, these destinations provide a deeper understanding of our shared human story. If you’re looking for your next adventure and love history, here’s a list of 10 incredible, lesser-known historical sites around the globe that you’ll want to add to your travel bucket list.

1. The Lost City of Petra – Jordan

One of the most iconic historical sites in the world, Petra is an ancient city carved into the rose-red cliffs of southern Jordan. Dating back to the 5th century BC, Petra was the thriving capital of the Nabatean Kingdom and a major trade hub. Today, visitors can explore its magnificent temples, tombs, and the famous Treasury – all carved into the mountainside.

Why Visit: Petra is a perfect blend of ancient engineering, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Don’t Miss the Siq, the narrow passageway leading to the Treasury, or the Monastery for stunning views.

Pro Tip: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun, especially during summer.

2. The Alhambra – Spain

Nestled in the hills of Granada, Spain, the Alhambra is a breathtaking palace and fortress complex that dates back to the 13th century. It’s a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, with stunning gardens, intricate mosaics, and beautifully preserved halls and courtyards. It served as the royal residence of the Nasrid dynasty and was later the seat of power for Spanish kings.

Why Visit: The Alhambra offers an unparalleled experience of Moorish history, stunning architecture, and peaceful gardens. Its influence on Spanish culture and art is immense, making it a must-see for history lovers.

Don't Miss visiting the Alhambra at night. The palaces, towers, and gardens are beautifully lit, creating a completely different atmosphere. Many visitors say it's an enchanting experience to see the Alhambra in the glow of the evening light.

Pro Tip: Plan for at least 3-4 hours to fully explore, take in its history and beauty.

3. Sacsayhuamán – Peru Perched above the city of Cusco, Sacsayhuamán is an ancient Incan fortress made of massive stone walls that are still shrouded in mystery. The precision with which the Incas cut and fit these stones without mortar has baffled historians and archaeologists for centuries. It is thought to have been a ceremonial site and military stronghold.

Why Visit: Visiting Sacsayhuamán allows you to marvel at the ingenuity of the Inca civilization. Don’t miss the impressive festival of Inti Raymi (the Festival of the Sun), which takes place at the site every June.

Pro Tip: Combine the visit with a walk to the nearby Q'enqo. This is another Incan archaeological site that is a short walk away and provides an added historical layer to your experience.

4. Herculaneum – Italy

While Pompeii often steals the spotlight, the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum, which was also destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, offers a more intimate glimpse into Roman life. The town’s remains are incredibly well-preserved, and much of its architecture, artwork, and even wooden structures have survived.

Why Visit: Herculaneum provides a unique opportunity to explore a well-preserved Roman town and see artifacts that give a sense of everyday life during the Empire’s peak.

Pro Tip: Don't miss the Boat Shelter, where many of Herculaneum's victims were found. The boat-shaped structures are fascinating remnants of the ancient city's evacuation attempts.

5. The Temples of Bagan – Myanmar

Spread across the plains of Bagan, Myanmar, are over 2,000 Buddhist temples and pagodas, built between the 11th and 13th centuries. Once the capital of the Pagan Kingdom, this awe-inspiring site is often less crowded than other historic temples, allowing visitors to experience its beauty in peace.

Why Visit: Bagan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its collection of temples, each with unique architecture, is unparalleled. Climb to the top of a temple for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Pro Tip: With over 2,000 temples and pagodas, scattered across a vast plain, one of the best ways to explore is by renting an e-bike. These are affordable and widely available in the area.

6. Machu Picchu – Peru

No list of historical travel destinations would be complete without Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The ancient Incan city sits high in the Andes Mountains and has long been an iconic symbol of the Inca Empire’s advanced engineering and astronomical knowledge.

Why Visit: Machu Picchu is a must-see destination for travelers, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience of walking in the footsteps of ancient civilizations amidst spectacular natural beauty.

Pro Tip: Book Tickets early. Tickets are limited and sell out quickly, so it's essential to book them in advance (ideally several months ahead). You can choose between a morning or afternoon entry. The morning ticket gives you a chance to experience the site with fewer visitors.

7. Angkor Wat – Cambodia

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple before being transformed into a Buddhist one. The temple complex spans over 162 hectares and showcases magnificent Khmer architecture.

Why Visit: Angkor Wat’s stunning carvings and enormous scale make it a remarkable site for history and architecture lovers. Be sure to visit the other temples in the Angkor Archaeological Park, each offering its own unique piece of history.

Pro Tip: Hire a Tuk-Tuk. Angkor Wat and the surrounding temple complex cover a massive area, and walking between temples can take a lot of time. A tuk-tuk will take you from one temple to the next, allowing you to visit multiple sites without exhausting yourself.

8. The Great Wall of China – China

Stretching over 13,000 miles across northern China, the Great Wall is one of the most well-known historical landmarks in the world. Initially constructed as a defense against nomadic invasions, it stands today as a symbol of China’s resilience and innovation.

Why Visit: The Great Wall’s size and historical significance are unparalleled, and hiking along its winding paths offers an unforgettable experience. Visit popular sections like Badaling or explore less crowded areas like Mutianyu.

Pro Tip: Hike or take the cable car. You can choose to hike up the Mutianyu section (which offers beautiful scenery and a more rewarding experience) or take the cable car to the top and then explore the wall at your leisure. For a bit more adventure, you can also take the toboggan ride down, which is a fun way to end your visit.

9. The Pyramids of Giza – Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza, built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, are one of the most iconic historical landmarks on Earth. These ancient wonders, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stand as testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the ancient Egyptians.

Why Visit: Visiting the Pyramids allows you to connect with one of the most famous ancient civilizations. Consider taking a camel ride around the site for a truly immersive experience.

Pro Tip: Watch out for camel and horse ride sellers. While riding a camel or horse around the pyramids can be a fun experience, be cautious with aggressive sellers. If you decide to do it, agree on the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged.

 10. The Tower of London – England

This historic castle and former royal residence has stood for over 1,000 years. Throughout its history, the Tower of London has been a royal palace, prison, mint, and even a zoo. It is home to the Crown Jewels, which attract millions of visitors each year.

Why Visit: The Tower of London offers a fascinating journey through British history, from the reign of William the Conqueror to the present day. Be sure to take a guided tour with one of the iconic Beefeaters.

Pro Tip: Plan for 2-3 hours. To really appreciate the various exhibits, including the medieval White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and the Tower's history, plan for a visit of about 2-3 hours.

Conclusion: Whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations, medieval architecture, or powerful empires, these historical sites offer an unparalleled glimpse into the past. Traveling to these incredible destinations allows you to walk in the footsteps of history and experience cultures that shaped the world as we know it.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Historical Travel Experience:

• Book Guided Tours: Many historical sites offer knowledgeable guides who can bring history to life with fascinating stories and insights.

• Research Before You Go: Reading about the site’s history beforehand can deepen your understanding and appreciation.

• Pack Appropriately: Many of these sites require walking or hiking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water for longer excursions.

• Check for Special Events: Some sites host reenactments or festivals that provide a deeper dive into the local history.

Ready to start your historical adventure? Begin planning your next trip to one of these awe-inspiring locations and step back in time! When you book with us, you receive all that is included in the tips above. We will recommend guided tours, do all the research for you, give you a packing list for your destination, and will check for special events to share with you. What are you waiting for, reach out!