10 Iconic Landmarks You Need To Visit At Least Once

The world is filled with all kinds of incredible landmarks that are both historic and awe-inspiring. While there are too many to list in just one article, here are 10 iconic landmarks that are definitely worth a visit sooner rather than later!

1. Machu Picchu

Located in Peru, this historic citadel is a breathtaking piece of history. While it is a pretty substantial hike to get here, it is worth every minute of it. Seeing it in person has been described by many as a surreal experience, it is one of those moments that you can’t quite put into words. Peru is an absolutely beautiful place, so if you get the chance to visit at all you are very lucky indeed. Machu Picchu is one of the most interesting landmarks in the world due to its unique location and history!

2. Taj Mahal

It is one of the most-visited parts of India as well as one of the top tourist destinations in the world because of the beauty and majestic aura of the building. The exquisite architecture of the Taj Mahal is unlike any other and is truly a sight to behold. The heart-wrenching story behind its existence makes it even more surreal and everyone should learn about its history and make it one of your must-visit landmarks.

3. St. Peter’s Basilica

It is one of the most important structures in Christianity because of the history behind it as well as the many priceless works of art that lay within it. However, religion aside, it is an awe-inspiring feat of architecture that dominates Rome’s skyline with its poignant dome. The Pietà is located in St. Peter’s Basilica along with other exquisite works of art.

4. Eiffel Tower

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a phenomenal experience and should 100% be near the top of your list of landmarks to visit. Climbing all the way up and seeing the vast city of Paris zooming by underneath you is a truly magical experience. There are few things (in my opinion) more beautiful than the Eiffel Tower when it is all lit up at night and spreading warmth through its immense glow over the city.

5. La Sagrada Familia

Located in Barcelona, Spain, La Sagrada Familia is an entirely unique landmark that is absolutely fascinating. The church was never quite finished and yet still stands today as one of the most intricately designed buildings in the world. It is still quite literally a work in progress, yet is an incredible experience that will totally take your breath away.

6. Pyramids of Giza

They remain one of the greatest architectural mysteries to date, and that makes them one of the most intriguing landmarks to visit by far. The Great Pyramid (the largest of the three) is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and will leave you in disbelief at its sheer size. How they were constructed is a huge unanswered question to just about everyone, so make sure you check them out and become entranced by their glory.

7. The Acropolis of Athens

This ancient citadel is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is just teeming with incredible history. Within the Acropolis are the remains of many famous buildings such as the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena among quite a few others. Greece in and of itself is one of the most scenic and gorgeous places in the world and the amount of fascinating history in the form of architectural remains it holds is all the more reason to visit!

8. The Colosseum

Located in Rome, the Colosseum is one of the most famous landmarks in Italy and throughout the world. It is still the largest amphitheater built during the Roman Empire and is an absolutely astounding work. Considering its age it is very well preserved and makes for a once in a lifetime experience when you visit.

9. Alcatraz

I think this is one of my personal favorites on this list despite it not being as old or holding quite as much history as some of the other landmarks. Alcatraz used to be a prison that is located offshore from San Francisco and housed some of the most notorious criminals the United States ever saw. It is rumored to be haunted, but you can judge that yourself. The stories of the attempted escapes and what life was like “on the rock” are some that have stuck with me to this day.

10. The Moai on Easter Island

The Moai statues are absolutely incredible to me. The statues were created by the Rapa Nui people and there are hundreds upon hundreds of them scattered over the island. Their purpose is to honor important people amongst the Rapa Nui and they are beautiful statues that are unlike anything else in the world.