The world is packed FULL of historical places.
And what’s amazing is that each and every year, more and more sites are being uncovered and expanded.
I feel very fortunate to have visited the vast majority of the historical sites from around the world that we have listed in this guide.
After 7 years of travel, we've made great progress in visiting these historical places and the ones we have left to do, will be completed in the future.
Some of these sites date back hundreds of years, others many thousands of years.
Each one is historically significant in its own right, and each one fascinating to behold in person.
So below I wanted to take you through what we believe to be the best historical sites in the world.
From the Mayan temples of Mexico, the beauty of the Taj Mahal, to the wonderment of Mesa Verde....
Each one is worthy of anyone’s travel bucket list!
Let’s get started…
Country: Egypt
Age: Around 4,500 years old
Reason for importance: The pyramids were built to prepare pharaohs for the afterlife in Ancient Egypt
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: There are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs in Cairo that offer incredible views of the pyramids!
The Pyramids of Giza are the definition of Ancient Egypt, and they’re one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the World’.
How they were built is still one of the world’s top mysteries, as they’ve been around for over 4,000 years. This makes them one of the most historical places in the world!
The Pyramids of Giza were built to prepare pharaohs for the afterlife. As well as being used as tombs, these pyramids were filled with everything that each ruler would need in the next world.
There are three pyramids in total, with the Great Pyramid being the largest.
Next to the Pyramids, you’ll find the iconic Sphinx statue which is another place of historical significance that you don’t want to miss!
This 8-hour private tour from Cairo includes a visit to the Pyramids, the Sphinx, The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, and a bazaar.
I first visited the Pyramids when I was a kid when cruising Egypt, and it's still a site that has stuck in mind all these years later. They do not disappoint.
Country: Peru
Age: Around 572 years old
Reason for importance: Machu Picchu is thought to have been built for the Inca Emperor Pachacuti
Cost of visiting: $-$$
Top tip: You might want to spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude change before visiting this iconic place!
Machu Picchu is located high up in the Andes Mountains, in the beautiful country of Peru!
It’s found just above the charming town of Aguas Calientes and is a destination that’s made it onto many people’s bucket lists.
What makes this place so historically significant is the fact that it’s an ancient Inca citadel that dates back to the 15th century!
Information regarding its origin isn’t 100% known, but Machu Picchu is thought to have been constructed as a royal retreat for the famous Pachacuti who was an Inca Emperor.
Today, this amazing place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known across the world for its spectacular mountain backdrop, and for being one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World'.
If you’re looking to visit Machu Picchu then you’ve got a couple of options! You can either hike the Inca trail, ride the train from Cusco/Ollantaytambo or walk by the side of the train tracks from Hidroeléctrica.
All of these options will take you to Aguas Calientes, and from there you can either catch a bus or hike to the entrance.
You can also purchase your admission tickets in advance, or choose to visit on a day trip from Cusco.
Whichever way you decide to visit, just make sure this place isn't left off your Peru itinerary! Just remember there are a specific set of rules to follow too, like not flying your drone or taking food into the site.
Country: England, United Kingdom
Age: Around 4,500 years old
Reason for importance: Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that dates back to the Neolithic period
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: Book your tickets in advance online to secure a spot
Stonehenge is one of the most famous historical places in the world and it’s also one of the most unique!
It’s an ancient stone circle that’s located in Wiltshire, which is a 2-hour drive from the capital city of London.
Although no one can know for sure, Stonehenge is thought to have been constructed to track the movements of the moon, sun, and stars.
Maybe less logical, there is folklore surrounding this ancient monument that suggests it was created by Merlin; the wizard from the Legend of Arthur.
However, the ‘how’ it was built is another matter. Due to the size of the standing stones, it seems impossible that they were somehow moved without machinery!
It’s one of the UK’s great mysteries, which makes it a fantastic place to visit. So what are you waiting for?
A great way to visit is by taking a day tour from London that includes other attractions.
Fun fact: the route from my home in Kent to our university drove past Stonehenge so I've actually seen the site quite a few times!
Country: Greece
Age: Around 1,500 years old
Reason for importance: The Acropolis is one of the greatest architectural masterpieces from Ancient Greece
Cost of visiting: $-$$
Top tip: The price of the entrance ticket depends on the time of year you visit
As you may have guessed, the Acropolis of Athens is located in Greece’s capital. It’s found on a rocky outcrop that offers stunning views of the city!
The Acropolis (also known as the Athenian Acropolis) is the symbol of Ancient Greece. It was built to honor the goddess of Athena so has a lot of historical significance.
There’s even some evidence to suggest it was constructed and inhabited earlier than the 5th century.
Over the years, there have been other historical sites built on top of the Acropolis including the Parthenon, the Ancient Temple of Athena, and the Temple of Asklepios!
The best way to explore the Acropolis and its surrounding sites is to take a guided tour.
This is one of our top travel tips as you’ll get to learn all about Ancient Greece.
When we finally saw these epic temples in real life, they exceeded our expectations. This is a historical place to visit that will not disappoint and I guarantee you'll want to re-visit.
Head later in the day for the sunset and when the weather is cooler.
Country: Mexico
Age: Around 2,700 years old
Reason for importance: Tula was the capital of the Toltec Empire
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: You can purchase a skip-the-line entrance ticket with Get Your Guide!
If you’re looking for historical places to visit in the world then make sure you head to Tula! It’s located around two hours north of Mexico City and is quite the sight.
The historical site of Tula was once the capital city of the Toltec Empire, and there are still archaeological remains of a few buildings that are left.
It’s not 100% certain where the exact location of Tula was, but due to the remains, we’ve got a pretty good idea! It’s thought that the capital covered a size of at least 3 square miles.
During your time here, you’ll get to see the remains of a large plaza, the palace complex, and a temple pyramid.
On top of this pyramid, there are stone columns that represent warriors.
Although Tula’s not a big place you’ll want to allow at least 2-3 hours here!
When we visited it was pretty much empty and we felt like we had the entire historical attraction to ourselves- it was pretty cool!
For an idea of what to wear for your trip, check out our Mexico packing list.
Country: Cambodia
Age: Around 900 years old
Reason for importance: Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world!
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: A cheap way to get around the complex is to hire a bicycle in Siem Reap
Angkor Wat is one of the very first historical places we visited together many years ago, and we still remember the sunrise like it was yesterday.
Angkor Wat is one of the most historical places to visit in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s a huge Buddhist temple complex that covers an impressive 400 acres and is home to over 1,000 religious temples. This makes it the largest religious monument on Earth!
Otherwise known as Angkor Archaeological Park, this area is home to the remains of the Khmer Empire which dates back to the 9th century.
The complex was built by King Suryavarman II and is thought to have taken around 30 years to complete. It then served as the Royal Center for Khmer Kings throughout the period of the empire.
Some of the most popular sights to see here include the main temple of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Bayon Temple, and Phnom Bakheng.
When visiting Angkor Wat, you can choose a 1-day pass, a 3-day pass, or a 7-day pass! I'd also recommend heading out on a sunrise guided tour so you can appreciate the views and learn more about this place.
Country: Jordan
Age: Around 2,300 years old
Reason for importance: Petra is one of the oldest cities in the world
Cost of visiting: $$-$$$
Top tip: Visit the famous ‘lookout spot’ on the nearby cliff which will allow you to look down onto Petra
Petra is one of the most famous historical places in the world and it’s not hard to see why!
With its otherworldly appearance and secluded location, Petra is quite the sight and it’s on many people’s bucket lists.
This iconic place is half-carved into red sandstone and is surrounded by mountains and gorges alike. Due to its location, Petra became the ‘Lost City’ for around 500 years until it was rediscovered in 1812!
It was once the capital of the Nabataean Empire between 400 B.C. and A.D. 106, and for this reason, is considered one of the oldest cities in the world.
Although not related to its history, you might actually recognize Petra from its appearance in ‘Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade’. The film put this historical wonder on the map for many people!
This 2-day tour from Amman also includes a visit to the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, as well as Petra.
Country: Syria
Age: Around 5,000 years old
Reason for importance: The Citadel of Aleppo is one of the oldest castles in the world
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: It’s currently advised not to travel to Syria, but we couldn’t miss this incredible place off the list!
The Citadel of Aleppo is one of the most unknown historical places in the world, and that’s mainly due to its location.
Unfortunately, Syria has been worn-torn since 2011 and there’s continuous conflict and civil unrest there. That means people haven’t had the chance to visit this incredible country and the beautiful city of Aleppo!
In this city, you’ll find the Citadel of Aleppo which is one of the most impressive buildings you’ll ever see. Dating back around 5,000 years, it’s one of the oldest castles in the world.
The majority of the structures in the citadel were built between the 12th-13th centuries, and there are Ottoman-period structures here too.
Located in the center of the city, seeing this historical place will feel like you’re entering another time period!
Here's some information about the Citadel of Aleppo if you're looking to learn more...
Country: Italy
Age: Around 1,943 years old
Reason for importance: The city’s burial in volcanic ash has preserved it for centuries
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: Make sure you purchase tickets in advance, which you can do through Get Your Guide
The ancient city of Pompeii is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy, with around 3 million people visiting every year.
Pompeii was one of the most sophisticated cities of its time, until 79 A.D when the towering Mount Vesuvius erupted! Because of this, the whole city was destroyed killing around 16,000 people.
Finally, Pompeii was unearthed in the 1700s and to everyone’s amazement was incredibly well preserved considering its age!
This is because it had been covered in ash for centuries.
What’s interesting about this event is that the Mount Vesuvius eruption is the first-ever recorded volcanic eruption in history!
During your time in Pompeii, you’ll want to head up to the crater of Mount Vesuvius during your visit too. After all, it’s the volcano that made this ancient city so historic.
Many people choose to visit Pompeii on a day trip from Rome, but in my opinion, you need more than one day to explore this incredible place.
A good way to do that is to base yourself in Naples, which is only a 20 minute car journey away from Pompeii, and you can also combine it with other historical sites in the areas such as Herculaneum
Country: Egypt
Age: Around 500 years old
Reason for importance: This place is an ancient burial ground for Egyptian Kings
Cost of visiting: $-$$
Top tip: You can choose three tombs to visit with your entrance ticket, or you can add on extra tombs for a price
The Valley of the Kings is one of the most important historical places in Egypt which is saying a lot! The reason for this is that It’s a burial ground for many ancient Egyptian Kings.
This historical site was founded by King Tuthmosis of the 18th dynasty, who was considered to be one of the greatest rulers that Egypt had ever seen!
In fact, he was the first ruler to be buried in the Valley of the Kings.
Other famous Egyptian Kings buried here include Tutankhamun, Seti I, Merenptah, and Ramses VI. There are over 60 tombs in total although only a few are accessible to the public.
Inside, you’ll get to witness hieroglyphics, unique passageways, and of course, the burial chambers.
There’s also a visitor center here where you can view a large 3D map of the Valley of the Kings.
Those who are short of time often visit here on a day trip from Hurghada, but if you can, allow at least 2-3 days in Luxor for the best experience.
Country: China
Age: Around 2,200 years old
Reason for importance: The wall was built to defend China from invaders
Cost of visiting: $$-$$$
Top tip: Avoid visiting the Great Wall during the weekends as it gets extremely busy!
The Great Wall of China is perhaps one of the most famous historical places in the world!
It was built by Qin Shi Huang (known as the ‘First Emperor’), whose mausoleum is surrounded by the famous Terracotta Army. The purpose of this army was to protect him in the afterlife (but more on this later).
Covering an impressive length of over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall of China is located along the country’s Northern border.
The most well-preserved section of the wall is the Mutianyu section which is extremely popular with tourists. However, if you’re after a less crowded experience then maybe head to Jinshanling!
One of the best places to visit along the wall has to be Jiankou as it’s untouched by tourism and is full of character and rugged beauty.
There are so many options so just make sure you do a bit of research before your trip!
This day tour from Beijing will take you to the Badaling section of the wall, as well as the Chang Ling Tomb.
Country: India
Age: Around 390 years old
Reason for importance: The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the remains of his beloved wife
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: You can go on a guided tour of the Taj Mahal if you’re looking to learn more about this world wonder
Seeing the Taj Mahal for the first time is an unreal experience and will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
Attracting around 7-8 million tourists every year, this is one of India’s most famous attractions and it doesn’t disappoint.
Built entirely of white warble, this impressive building is one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World'.
I’d recommend getting there as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds as this place gets super busy! Just make sure you take your photos early on!
No matter how you decide to visit, this isn’t a place you want to leave off your India itinerary.
So, we’ve got an in-depth guide on our website about visiting the Taj Mahal to help you out.
The biggest tip we can possibly give you is to make sure you're one of the first people to walk through those gates, and get your pictures first, then sightsee.
There are plenty of hotels within walking distance to the Taj Mahal to make this possible.
Country: Thailand
Age: Around 670 years old
Reason for importance: Ayutthaya was the second Siamese capital city after Sukhothai
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: To make the most of our visit, you’ll want to spend at least one full day here, preferably two!
There are plenty of fantastic world heritage sites to visit, but make sure you don’t miss out on the historic city of Ayutthaya!
Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 and became the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom. Due to its quick growth, it became one of the largest urban areas in the world during the 14th to 18th centuries!
Unfortunately, in 1767 Ayutthaya was attacked and destroyed by the Burmese Army who burnt most of it to the ground. Today, the archaeological remains are all that’s left of this once mighty city!
Now, this historical site is huge so you won’t be able to see all of it unless you’ve got a ton of time. For that reason, make a list of your ‘must-sees’ and head to them first.
Ayutthaya is easy to visit as it’s just a 1.5-hour drive from the popular city of Bangkok and can be visited on a day tour!
For this reason, it's not a place you want to miss off your Thailand itinerary.
Country: Colorado, United States
Age: Around 700 years old
Reason for importance: This historical site was the home of the Ancestral Pueblo people
Cost of visiting: $-$$
Top tip: During your visit to Mesa Verde, make sure you hit some of the nearby hiking trails
If you’re looking for historic places to visit in the USA then make sure you head to Mesa Verde.
This unique destination offers a window into the past where you’ll get to see cliff dwellings that were home to the Ancestral Pueblo people!
Some of these cliff dwellings can be found at an altitude of over 2,600m, and consist of over 100 rooms which is pretty impressive.
In total, there have been around 4,400 archaeological sites recorded at Mesa Verde making it an important site of historical significance. Some of the most popular spots to visit include the Cliff Palace, Square Tower House, and Balcony House.
If you’re road-tripping through the United States and the state of Colorado in particular, then you don’t want to miss out on this place!
For us, this entire place was a surprise, we had never heard of it before we visited, but the history was so interesting, and it was even more exciting to find something so historical in the USA, which is quite "new".
Country: Malta
Age: Around 5,700 years old
Reason for importance: Ggantija Temples is a unique prehistoric monument
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: The Temples are located on the island of Gozo, so you’ll need to catch a ferry there!
Ggantija is even older than Stonehenge which is an impressive feat in itself. Dating back around 5,700 years, the Ġgantija Archaeological Park complex is primarily made up of two temples!
The name is derived from the word ‘giant’ as the Maltese believed that these temples were built by giants. Once you see the size of them, you’ll understand why this theory came about!
It’s thought that the temples and surrounding areas were used for ceremonial gatherings, liquid offerings, and animal sacrifices, as there’s evidence to suggest this.
However, during 2500 BC the Ggantija Temples fell into disuse and weren’t really known about until the 19th century!
Today, this archaeological park is one of the more unique historical sites and not many people know about it. This makes it a great place to visit if you’re looking to avoid the crowds!
This Gozo day trip from Malta includes a visit to the Ggantija Temples, as well as the Citadel of Rabat and the Bay of Xlendi.
Country: Guatemala
Age: Around 3,000 years old
Reason for importance: Tikal City was once the capital city of the Mayan Classic Period
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: You’ll need your passport with you to purchase entrance tickets so don’t forget it!
The Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala are undoubtedly one of the most impressive historic travel destinations, as it’s like visiting another planet!
These ruins are located deep in the jungle within Tikal National Park, and they were once a city that was considered to be the beating heart of the Mayan Empire.
It’s thought that around 10,000 people lived here as it was the Mayan capital, with the first records of the city dating back to around 1000 BC.
There are plenty of incredible temples to visit at Tikal, with some of the most popular being The Temple of the Great Jaguar, the Temple of the Double-Headed Serpent, and The Temple of the Mask.
However, there’s so much more to see so allow at least one full day here! To make the visit easier, you can head to these ruins on a day trip from the town of Flores.
Start your trip early, and make sure you drink plenty of water, the park is big and the sun is strong.
Country: France
Age: The paintings are estimated to be around 17,000 years old!
Reason for importance: These caves are home to art from the Upper Paleolithic period
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: Only 30 people are allowed in at a time so book your tickets in advance!
Lascaux Cave may not be one of the most well-known historical places in the world, but it’s definitely one of the most unique!
It was discovered in the 1940s when paintings were found that had been left by our Cro-Magnon ancestors. These paintings typically depict animals such as bulls and horses, and they’re absolutely breathtaking!
Dating back around 17,000 years, these paintings are some of the best examples we have of artwork from the Upper Paleolithic period.
The key thing to remember about this place is that you won’t be exploring the actual cave, as it’s been closed to the public since 1963. This was due to the degradation of the paintings!
Instead, there’s a replica cave that’s right next to it which you’ll get to go inside and explore. You can actually visit this replica cave on a day tour from Sarlat-la-Canéda if you're short on time.
Lascaux Cave is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in France so what are you waiting for?
Country: Israel
Age: Around 2,000 years old
Reason for importance: It’s one of the oldest cities in the world
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: The Old City is free to visit, but there are plenty of places to enter inside that require a fee
The Old City of Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world and is a small area located in the center of Jerusalem itself.
It’s one of the most important religious destinations in the world for Jews, Christians, and Muslims, and there are many reasons for this!
Firstly, the Old City of Jerusalem is home to the Western Wall which is all that remains of the Jewish Temple that once stood there. This makes it one of the holiest places in the world for Jewish people!
Secondly, this is also where you’ll find the Dome of the Rock which is where the prophet Muhammed is thought to have risen to heaven.
And lastly, the Old City of Jerusalem is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Some people believe that this is where Jesus was crucified and buried, although this opinion differs!
For the best experience, take a guided tour of the Old City as you'll get to learn so much about its history and the buildings that are found here.
Country: Scotland
Age: Around 5,000 years ago
Reason for importance: One of the best-preserved Neolithic settlements in Europe.
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: Skara Brae is located on the Orkney Islands rather than the Scottish mainland, so you’ll need to catch the ferry over
Skara Brae is one of the best historical places to visit in the world, although it may not look like much to some!
It’s one of the oldest settlements in the world dating back around 5,000 years, so it was present long before the likes of Stonehenge or Angkor Wat.
Skara Brae was once a thriving Neolithic village but had long been forgotten until the site was accidentally discovered during a storm in 1850!
Today, nine Neolithic houses have survived to some extent, and you can see inside them to see how they would have looked all those years ago!
You’ll even get to marvel at original ‘fitted furniture’ and artifacts such as tools and jewelry, which can be seen in the visitor center.
This Orkney Islands day trip from John O'Groats includes your entrance fee to Skara Brae, and you'll get to visit other spots too!
For those with more time, you'll also want to explore the Scottish mainland as there are plenty of fantastic places to visit in Scotland.
Country: Turkey
Age: Around 11,500 years old
Reason for importance: Gobekli Tepe is home to some of the oldest monument structures in history!
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: Make sure you head to the visitor center and archaeological Museum during your visit
There are plenty of fascinating mysteries on this planet, and Gobekli Tepe is one of them!
This historical site in Turkey is home to over 20 stone circle enclosures, with many of these stones dating back around 11,500 years.
This makes them one of the oldest monumental structures in Human History!
The big question is how did these stones get here? Especially, as some of them weigh up to 10 tons which is a pretty big feat considering these people had no access to machinery.
Further excavations showed no evidence of domesticated animals either!
Although archaeologists can’t be sure of the purpose of Gobekli Tepe, it’s thought that hunter-gatherers came together to live off the land. If this is the case, it’s a rather unique point in our history!
Here's some more information about Gobekli Tepe...
Country: Chile
Age: Around 1,300 years old
Reason for importance: These statues show the unique culture of the ancient Polynesians
Cost of visiting: $$$
Top tip: Easter Island is one of the most remote islands in the world and there’s only one airline that flies here!
Easter Island has to be one of the most amazing historical sites in South America, if not the world!
If you’re a fan of unique destinations then you’ve most likely already seen pictures of the giant Moai statues that are found here.
Some of which stand an impressive 13 feet tall and weigh up to 14 tons. What’s even more impressive is that these statues have been hand-carved!
The Easter Island statues were carved by the Rapa Nui people and no one’s entirely sure of why they were created. However, it’s thought that they were constructed to honor an ancient ancestor or chief.
The funny thing about this place is that most people only associate the Moai statues with heads, but they do in fact, have bodies!
Visiting this incredible place is one of the best things to do in South America, and certainly isn't something you want to leave out while exploring the continent.
This full-day highlights tour will show you the best of Easter Island and you'll get to ask the guide plenty of questions.
Country: Spain
Age: Around 1,100 years old
Reason for importance: It’s one of the best-preserved Muslim citadels in Spain
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: You’ll want to purchase your tickets way in advance as this place is very popular
The Alhambra of Granada is one of the most impressive buildings in the world, well actually it’s a palace and fortress complex!
It’s thought that The Alhambra was built as a military zone in the beginning which is why it’s still known as a fortress. However, throughout the years it’s also been a Royal Residence and the Court of Granada.
The Alhambra was actually home to the sultan at one point, so it’s got quite the history.
The first historical documentation of The Alhambra is in 889, as it refers to an individual called Sawwar ben Hamdun who had to seek refuge in the fortress at this time.
If that’s the case, then this fascinating building is over 1,000 years old!
To see the entire complex, you’ll want to allow at least three hours although that would probably be a rush. Just make sure you purchase your entrance ticket in advance if you can!
Country: Canada
Age: Around 1000 years old
Reason for importance: It’s the first recorded Viking settlement in North America
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: Head to the Viking Encampment to try blacksmithing or weaving for the full experience!
If you’re looking for historical places to visit then don’t miss out on L’Anse aux Meadows! It’s a national historic site in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and for good reason.
L’Anse aux Meadows is actually home to the first (and only) recorded Viking settlement in North America. Pretty special right?
The site dates back around 1,000 years and the excavated remains have been compared to those in Iceland and Norse Greenland!
This area was only discovered in 1968 when two archaeologists came across a single cloak pin. That tiny item changed the course of North America’s history and the role that European settlers played in it!
There are eight timber-framed structures at L’Anse aux Meadows today, and these structures include dwellings, a forge, and workshops.
Trust me if you’re heading to Canada, then this isn’t a place that you want to miss!
Country: Iceland
Age: Around 1,200 years old
Reason for importance: Thought to be the oldest Viking settlement in Iceland
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: It’s not clear whether excavations have finished at Stöð so it’s not a guarantee that you’ll get to see this settlement if you head to Iceland (just yet anyway)
Leading on from L’Anse aux Meadows, you’ve got Stöð Viking Settlement which is thought to be the oldest Viking settlement in Iceland!
In discovery terms, the Stöð Viking Settlement is relatively new as it was only discovered a couple of years ago. It’s made up of two buildings, with one thought to date back to 870 A.D and the longhouse, that’s thought to be even older!
The longhouse is thought to date back to 800 A.D which would make it a crucial piece of history when it comes to Icelandic settlements. Why do you ask?
Well, it means that everything we knew about Iceland is wrong as this site dates back decades before the official ‘settlement’ of the country.
If you want to explore the amazing settlements here, then we'd highly recommend hiring a car.
Country: South Africa
Age: The island has been a prison for around 600 years
Reason for importance: Has played an important role in the history of South Africa
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: It's best to book a Robben Island tour in advance that includes your ferry ticket too
Robben Island is most famous for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. For this reason, it became a symbol of freedom over oppression during the apartheid.
However, it’s got a much longer history than that!
People who resisted oppression and apartheid rule were sent to this prison as early as the 1400s. Although the people here were subjected to harsh conditions, they always continued to fight for their freedom!
Not only was this place used for prisoners, but it was used as a general infirmary to isolate those with leprosy, the chronically ill, or those who were deemed ‘insane’.
The only time Robben Island hasn’t been used as a prison of some sort was between 1931 and 1960 when it became a military base.
Country: China
Age: Around 2,200 years old
Reason for importance: This army was built to accompany the First Emperor of China into the afterlife
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: You’ll want to visit before 10 am as this is generally when the large tour groups start to arrive!
As I briefly touched upon earlier, the Terracotta Army was built to protect the ‘First Emperor’ Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
This Army is thought to consist of over 8,000 soldiers, around 130 chariots, and over 600 horses. The majority of which are still buried near the mausoleum in deep pits!
Building this Terracotta army was no easy feat, and it took around 700,000 builders to get the task done. Unfortunately, many of them were buried alive with Qin Shi Huang to keep the tomb’s location hidden!
The site of the mausoleum and its army is considered to be one of the best historical places of the world, so is a must-visit.
There’s a museum at the site which is home to three separate vaults and an exhibition hall!
This 2.5 hour guided tour is a great way to visit, as you'll be able to learn so much more about this incredible archaeological wonder.
Country: Mexico
Age: Around 1,500 years old
Reason for importance: Chichen Itza was used as a ceremonial center for the Mayan people
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: You can get an exclusive admission ticket if you want to be one of the first people to enter the site
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico, and one of the most popular attractions in the country in general.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site seems to be engulfed by the forest and covers an area of four square miles so there’s a lot to see.
It’s one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ and is the most visited archeological site in Mexico, attracting over 2.5 million visitors every year!
Boasting over 1,500 years of history, a magnificent design, and an interesting past, it’s no wonder that Chichen Itza is so popular.
If you’re looking to visit these famous Mayan ruins, then you can reach them by bus, car, or by guided tour! Just to note, you can’t walk up the temple anymore as that’s been prohibited!
Country: Australia
Age: Around 190 years old
Reason for importance: Port Arthur is Australia’s best-preserved convict site
Cost of visiting: $$
Top tip: There are lots of fantastic tours available here including the Port Arthur Ghost Tour
There are plenty of historic places to visit in the world, and Port Arthur Historic Site is arguably one of the youngest, and most underrated!
This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers an impressive area of 100 acres and you’ll find over 30 historic buildings on-site. But, what was the purpose of this place you ask?
Well, Port Arthur has had many uses, but the most famous of which is a prison! After 1788, the United Kingdom used to send some of their prisoners over to Australia and this is where they’d go.
Conditions were notoriously poor, and prisoners were forced to carry out labor during their time here!
Unfortunately, this historic site has another rather tragic event in its history; that being the Port Arthur gun massacre in 1996. This mass shooting killed 35 people and left another 18 wounded.
You can book your entrance ticket in advance to ensure you get to visit this interesting historic site.
Country: Japan
Age: Around 2,500 years ago
Reason for importance: It’s believed to be the tomb of Emperor Nintoku
Cost of visiting: You can’t visit inside the tomb at the minute as it’s not been excavated yet
Top tip: There are other paid attractions in the area including The Sakai City Museum!
There’s no shortage of historical places to visit in Japan, but you won’t find many places like this one!
This tomb is located in Osaka and is the largest tomb in the country with a width of over 300 meters. Not only that but it’s surrounded by its own moat of water!
Although archaeologists can’t be certain, they believe it to be the tomb of Emperor Nintoku, who was the 16th Emperor of Japan.
This three-tiered tomb has platforms for religious ceremonies, and although it’s the largest tomb here it’s not the only one! There are, in fact, several dozen but they’re not open to the public.
For the best view of these tombs, head to the observation deck which can be found on the 21st floor of the Sakai City Hall!
Country: Java, Indonesia
Age: Around 20,000 years old
Reason for importance: It’s believed to be one of the oldest human sites on Earth
Cost of visiting: $
Top tip: The best way to visit Gunung Padang is on a tour as it’s very remote!
Gunung Padang has to be one of the most ‘unknown’ historical travel destinations as until recently, not many people knew about it.
This site rose to fame with history buffs on the new Netflix show ‘Ancient Apocalypse’, and trust me it’s a fascinating watch!
Gunung Padang is a relatively new discovery, and yet scientists are starting to believe that it could be one of the oldest human sites on the planet.
Across the hilltop of Gunung Padang, you’ll find endless monuments and rocky structures that seem to be the remains of a huge complex.
In fact, it’s thought that there’s an ancient pyramid hidden underneath the surface, with parts of it dating back over 20,000 years. Now, that’s crazy!
If these findings turn out to be true, it changes the whole idea of humans during the prehistoric age!
Here's some more information about Gunung Padang...
There are endless historical places to visit in the world, but which one has caught your eye?
Popular destinations like the Pyramids of Giza, Angkor Wat, and the Great Wall of China are often the first places to make it onto people’s bucket lists.
However, there are so many more fascinating places to visit that have a wealth of history!
Where you travel will all depend on what you’re after, so…
Are you looking to experience a historical destination away from the crowds?
Or, would you prefer to tick off a world wonder?
Either way, you’ll have a fantastic time visiting any of these destinations!
If you’ve enjoyed this lengthy guide then we’ve got plenty more where that came from:
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