Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites You Should Visit

Table of Contents
 

1. Taj Mahal, India

2. Great Wall of China, China

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

6. Petra, Jordan

7. Kyoto’s Historic Temples, Japan

8. Venice, Italy

9. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

10. Stonehenge, England

The world is home to countless cultural and natural wonders. However, only a few of them are recognised as important by UNESCO and are well-known as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These sites are renowned  for their historical, architectural, or environmental significance and if you haven’t visited them yet, now is your time. 

So pack your bags, book your tickets and set sail either solo or with your friends for an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re exploring the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites near Delhi, uncovering ancient wonders in Asia, or admiring architectural marvels across continents, these destinations promise you surreal experiences.

From grand palaces and sacred temples to untouched natural beauty, here are the Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that should definitely be on every bucket list.
 

1. Taj Mahal, India

One of the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites near Delhi, the Taj Mahal is an epitome of love and architectural brilliance. Located in Agra, just a few hours from Delhi, this 17th-century Mughal masterpiece is built with white marble and adorned with intricate carvings. The stunning mausoleum attracts millions of visitors every year, making it a must-visit for travellers exploring India.
 

Why Visit?
 

• Witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset views over the Yamuna River.

• Explore the fascinating history of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan and his love for Mumtaz Mahal.
   

How to Visit?

• By Air: You can board a flight to Agra airport and take a cab to reach your destination upon landing.
• By Train: You can also board superfast trains like Shatabdi Express and Taj Express to reach your destination.
• By Road: Alternatively, you can also board a cab or a bus to reach Agra.

2. Great Wall of China, China
 

Spanning over 21,000 kilometers, the Great Wall of China is among the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites in Asia. Built between the 7th and 16th centuries, the wall served as a defense system against invasions and remains a symbol of Chinese strength and perseverance.
 

Why Visit?

• Experience an awe-inspiring hike along one of the world's greatest architectural feats.

• Enjoy panoramic views of mountains and valleys from various sections of the wall.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Beijing Capital International Airport is the nearest airport.

• By Train: High-speed trains run from Beijing to Badaling, the most popular section of the wall.

• By Road: A 1.5-hour drive from Beijing to Badaling or Mutianyu sections.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru


 

Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, Machu Picchu is one of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a prime example of Incan civilization. This ancient citadel, built in the 15th century, was mysteriously abandoned and rediscovered in 1911, attracting history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Why Visit?
 

• Trek the famous Inca Trail for a thrilling journey to the ruins.

• Capture mesmerizing views of the lush green valley surrounding the site.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: You can fly into Jorge Chávez International Airport (Lima), and then take a domestic flight to Cuzco.

• By Train: From Cusco, take the Belmond Hiram Bingham or PeruRail Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes.

• By Road: From Aguas Calientes, either hike up (1.5 hours) or take a 30-minute bus ride.

4. Angkor Wat, Cambodia
 

A jewel of Southeast Asia, Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. Originally built as a Hindu temple in the early 12th century, it later became a Buddhist pilgrimage site. The intricate carvings and massive stone temples make it one of the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites in Asia.

Why Visit?
 

• Marvel at the intricate bas-reliefs depicting ancient Hindu mythology.

• Experience the breathtaking sunrise over the temple’s silhouette.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly to Siem Reap International Airport, 6 km from Angkor Wat.

• By Train: Sadly, there are no direct train options available.

• By Road: Tuk-tuks, taxis, and rental bikes are available from Siem Reap city.

5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramids of Giza, built over 4,500 years ago, remain one of the most extraordinary architectural achievements in history. Home to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Sphinx, and smaller pyramids, this site continues to amaze historians and tourists alike.

Why Visit?
 

• Stand before one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• Explore the tombs of pharaohs and unravel the mysteries of ancient Egyptian civilization.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly into Cairo International Airport, about 40 km from Giza.
• By Train: Trains operate from Alexandria and Luxor to Cairo, followed by a road transfer.
• By Road: A 30-minute drive from central Cairo via taxis or buses. You can book hotels in Cairo and travel from there.

6. Petra, Jordan
 

Known as the "Rose City", Petra is an ancient Nabatean city famous for its rock-cut architecture and hidden desert beauty. Once a thriving trade hub, it now stands as a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing millions of visitors annually.

Why Visit?
 

• Walk through the Siq, a narrow canyon leading to the famous Al-Khazneh (Treasury).

• Discover tombs, temples, and caves carved into rose-red sandstone cliffs.

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly into Queen Alia International Airport (Amman).

• By Train: Sadly, there are no train options available.

• By Road: A 3-hour drive from Amman by taxi or rented car.

7. Kyoto’s Historic Temples, Japan

Home to 17 UNESCO-listed temples and shrines, Kyoto is a must-visit for anyone exploring Japan. Known for its zen gardens, golden pavilions, and traditional tea houses, Kyoto perfectly blends cultural heritage and natural beauty.
 

Why Visit?
 

• Experience the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of red torii gates.

• Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), a stunning gold-leaf-covered temple.

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly to Kansai International Airport (Osaka), then take a train to Kyoto.

• By Train: The Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo reaches Kyoto in 2.5 hours.

• By Road: Buses and taxis operate from Osaka and other cities.

8. Venice, Italy
 

The entire city of Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its floating canals, historical palaces, and artistic treasures. The romantic city is home to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Grand Canal, and the iconic gondola rides, making it a must-visit destination.
 

Why Visit?
 

• Enjoy a scenic gondola ride through the Grand Canal.

• Explore Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square to witness Venice’s rich history.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport.

• By Train: Take a train to Venezia Santa Lucia Station.

• By Road: No roads in Venice—use water taxis or vaporettos (public boats).

Suggested Read: 10 of the Must Visit Places in Italy for a Perfect vacation
 

9. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

For wildlife lovers, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a dream destination. Known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles travel across the plains, this park offers some of the best safari experiences in the world.
 

Why Visit?
 

• Witness the thrilling Great Wildebeest Migration.

• Spot lions, elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos in their natural habitat.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, then take a domestic flight to Seronera Airstrip.

• By Train: No train routes available.

• By Road: A 6-hour drive from Arusha or Moshi.

10. Stonehenge, England
 

One of Europe’s most mysterious and ancient landmarks, Stonehenge dates back over 5,000 years. This prehistoric stone circle in England has fascinated historians and scientists for centuries, with its unknown purpose and astrological significance.
 

Why Visit?
 

• Learn about the Neolithic and Bronze Age history of England.

• Experience the summer solstice, when the sun aligns perfectly with the stones.
   

How to Visit?
 

• By Air: Fly into London Heathrow or Bristol Airport.

• By Train: Take a train from London Waterloo to Salisbury, then a bus to Stonehenge.

• By Road: A 2-hour drive from London.
   

Final Thoughts
 

Exploring the Top 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites is an unforgettable journey through history, nature, and culture. From the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites near Delhi like the Taj Mahal to the world’s most stunning UNESCO heritage sites in Asia like Angkor Wat and Kyoto, each destination offers a unique glimpse into humanity’s incredible achievements. So, which one are you visiting next? Plan today and witness these breathtaking wonders firsthand!