UNESCO world heritage sites celebrate some of the most enchanting destinations around the world while safeguarding their otherworldly beauty and historic value. There are over 1000 world heritage sites but we have picked the cream of the crop with the 12 best UNESCO sites that you must visit at least once in your life.
Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal – the symbol of love, is one of the most renowned attractions in India, and the world. the delicately constructed ivory-white mausoleum is one of the most beautiful Mughal architectural wonders to exist.
The tomb or mausoleum was commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for the body of his wife Mumtaz Mahal in 1632. Explore the remarkable Indo-Islamic marble structure in Agra under the bright blue Indian sky.
Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch, Switzerland
The magical mountainous region of Jungfrau-Aletsch is the Alp’s very first UNESCO site. It is the most visited spot when going on an alpine excursion and is also included in European art, mountaineering, and literature.
It is the European Alp’s most glaciated region, housing Europe’s largest glacier – the Aletsch Glacier. Explore the captivating beauty of the Swiss and discover over 2000 species of plants and animals with 700 moss types identified to date.
Chichen Itza, Mexico
Serving as the most powerful city of Yucatan in the past, Chichen Itza is a marvelous ancient structure in Mexico dating back more than 1,000 years. It was created by the Mayans as a pilgrimage site and it stands erect as one of the top spots in Mexico.
Enjoy a day of exploring the striking 30-meter step pyramid and the ancient carvings within the structures under the clear skies and breezy winds of Mexico. In the evening, there are light and sound shows to relish with the whole family.
Leshan Giant Buddha, China
While everyone gravitates towards the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, we are here to highlight the Leshan Giant Buddha as a must-visit spot on your next trip. Nestled within towering cliffs of mesmeric red shades and lush greenery, the whopping 71-meter Buddha statue sits calmly while overlooking the cliffs.
The magnificence of its carvings and detailed architecture leaves one in awe. It is the largest and tallest Buddha statue in the world with several viewing points and a challenging climb to reach the top.
Paris, Banks of the Seine, France
Paris is house to a huge variety of cultural and historic sites. Once you are tired of exploring the Eiffel Tower, Palais de Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, enjoy a peaceful tour of the Banks of the Seine. The Left Bank is called La Rive Gauche and the Right Bank is La Rive Droite.
Both Banks are included in UNESCO World Heritage Sites and for good reason. The ultimate Parisian experience aside, they both hold distinct charm of their own with the Left Bank rich in café culture, artistic vibes, and views of the Eiffel Tower.
Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza definitely deserves a mention in the top UNESCO sites. The most iconic structure of the world leaves one star-struck and an awe of its surreal architecture.
These pyramids were built as tombs by the Pharaohs and the Sphinx is just right around the corner, standing guard to their beauty. For the best views, take a camel ride at sunset and explore all the different facades of these otherworldly structures.
Roman Colosseum, Italy
Another highly recognized structure of the world is the roman Colosseum in Italy. It is the largest remaining structure from the Roman times, paying homage to the awe-inspiring history and achievements of the Empire.
Dating back to 72AD, the Colosseum has served many roles throughout the course of its existence. Explore this marvelous structure in all its glory with special cultural events happening around the year.
Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco
Get a taste of Morocco with rich and historic Moroccan architecture and humble village life at Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou. This beautiful Moroccan earthen village stands unspoiled with the passage of time and retains its ancient architectural value.
With a breathtaking backdrop of the desert, the deep shades of reddish mud look astounding. The best time to visit this site is at sunrise and sunsets.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a vibrant and psychedelic city in Belgium with beautiful medieval buildings and enchanting canals. The quaint streets and romantic squares make it a great spot for honeymoons while exploring the ancient architecture of Europe.
Some of the highlights at Bruges include its Gothic architecture, Basilica of the Holy Blood, and world-renowned Flemish art including gorgeous artwork handing in the neighborhood Groening Museum.
Cape Floral Region, South Africa
Tucked within the Table Mountain National Park, the De Hoop Nature Reserve and Groot Winter Hoek Wilderness Area are the most remarkable protected regions in South Africa. With immense terrestrial biodiversity, the region is hotspot for a huge variety of rare and unique plants.
The area is considered to be a heaven for botanists as there are over 6,000 plant species to explore, 1,736 of which are identified as endangered.
