It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve seen the Grand Canyon on screen — nothing comes close to the feeling of standing on the chasm’s edge, perhaps contemplating the power of the geological forces that formed it millions of years ago. A similar feeling of wonder can be found across other incredible sites — from the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, the places granted Unesco world heritage list status are as diverse as they are awe-inspiring. But with more than 1,200 protected sites on the list, it can be tricky knowing where to start. This is our pick of the best Unesco world heritage sites, each a window into the history, culture and natural wonders that shape our planet.
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1. The Appian Way, Italy
Flat, arrow-straight and spanning the 350 miles between the Roman Forum in the Eternal City and what is now known as Brindisi, the Appian Way became Italy’s 60th Unesco world heritage site in 2024, making it the country with the highest number of locations on the list. Developed from 312BC by the censor Appius Claudius Caecus, it has seen wars and invasions, been a thriving trade route and a pit stop for aristocratic Europeans. Today, the first ten miles remain, preserved within the Appia Antica archaeological park.
Make it happen
Take an ebike tour along the Appian Way to check out sights including the ancient Roman aqueducts and warren-like catacombs.
• Read our full guide to Italy
2. Kakadu National Park, Australia
The size of Wales, the largest national park in the north of Australia is home to lush wetlands, soaring sandstone cliffs and crashing waterfalls. Kakadu is also the site of Aboriginal paintings dating back 20,000 years, making them one of the longest historical records of any group of people in the world. See them on the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) walk, then explore other highlights such as the former mining town of Jabiru; the Yellow Water Billabong, with its saltwater crocs and multitude of birdlife; and the Jim Jim Falls, whose ice cube-clear waters contrast mesmerisingly with the Northern Territory’s red-ochre soil.
Make it happen
AAT Kings offers a three-day Kakadu & Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge tour that covers all the highlights.
• Read our full guide to Australia
3. Angkor, Cambodia
A trip to the beautiful temples of Cambodia is on most travellers’ bucket lists. Even Jackie Kennedy described her 1967 visit to the 12th-century religious complex Angkor Wat as fulfilling a “lifelong dream”. The Angkor site is huge, covering an area of about 400 sq km; there are many temples here, but Angkor Wat is by far the most famous. You’ll need to get up extra early, though, as watching the sun rise over it is an experience not to be missed.
Make it happen
The nine-day Cambodian Traveller tour from Intrepid Travel includes a sunrise visit to Angkor Wat, as well as stops in Phnom Penh, Battambang and Siem Reap.
• Read our full guide to Asia
4. Machu Picchu, Peru
There’s a reason Machu Picchu is the most popular Inca archaeological ruin in the world. Its ancient stone walls, impressive mountain views and camera-friendly llamas have made it a must-see for visitors to Peru. Built by the Incas, who ruled the area during the 15th and 16th centuries, the mountaintop citadel was abandoned and “lost” for years. Thankfully, it was rediscovered in 1911. Be sure to catch the iconic Temple of the Sun.
Make it happen
Join the 15-day Essential Peru tour from Exodus Adventure Travels. The guided itinerary includes stops in Lima, Paracas, Nazca Lines, Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca and Colca Canyon.
5. Grand Canyon, US
Sculpted by the Colorado River more than five million years ago, the Grand Canyon is one of the most distinguishable landmarks in the US. Believe it or not, little was known about it until about the mid-19th century. It was even marked as a vacant area on maps. If you have time to spare, why not stay in a hotel on the rim and book a guided hike along the canyon edge? There are few better ways to explore its more remote trails while learning about its history.
Make it happen
The three-day Hiking the Best of the Grand Canyon tour from Intrepid Travel, which starts and ends in Flagstaff, Arizona, is best tagged on to a longer stay.
• Read our full guide to the US
• Best national parks in the US
6. Mtskheta, Georgia
The tiny ancient capital and religious centre of Georgia is still relatively unknown to many travellers. The town developed early on thanks to its location along one of the world’s best-known trade routes, as well as its close relations with the Roman Empire. Now those who visit Mtskheta have the chance to see highlights including the magnificent Svetitskhoveli Cathedral (pictured above), believed to be the burial spot of Christ’s robe, and the Jvari Monastery, a Georgian Orthodox monastery set at the top of a mountain.
Make it happen
Exodus Adventure Travels’ A Week in Georgia tour offers a nine-day, round-trip adventure from the capital Tbilisi that also includes a chance to travel the Georgian Military Highway and the opportunity to make khinkali dumplings.
7. Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Where else in the world can you walk between the tectonic plates of two continents? Part of the famous Golden Circle route, Thingvellir National Park lies in a rift valley marking the boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates. Once the meeting place of Althing, the world’s oldest parliament, it’s now one of the biggest tourist attractions in Iceland. Hiking through the lava walls of the Almannagja gorge, used to portray the Gates of the Moon in Game of Thrones, is essential.
Make it happen
See it all on the eight-day Iceland Family Journey: Geysers, Glaciers and Fjords tour from G Adventures, which is suitable for children aged seven and up.
8. Kandy, Sri Lanka
Perched high up in the hills, the sacred city of Kandy was the last capital of the kings of Sri Lanka. It once had a starring role in 1984’s Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and its star quality is clear. The sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (pictured above) is the main attraction here: the lavish 18th-century building is a stunning sight, with paintings and golden elephant heads. Inside it houses a tooth said to belong to the Buddha.
Make it happen
The eight-day Colombo, Caves & Kandy itinerary from On the Go Tours also includes stops in Dambulla, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya and Udawalawe National Park.
9. Petra, Jordan
Petra was founded by Arabian tribe the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago, and later became part of the Roman Empire around AD106. The ancient city remained forgotten by the world outside Jordan for many years, but now it’s one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites and a fascinating place to visit. Walk through Petra’s main entrance the Siq, a narrow gap between two overhanging cliffs, and you’ll reach headline act the Treasury (pictured above). No one’s sure when this near-40m-high mausoleum, carved from red desert sandstone, was constructed — but there’s no denying its beauty.
Make it happen
See it on the nine-day Jordan: Petra, Wadi Rum & the Life of the Bedouin tour from G Adventures, which includes hikes that allows you to see more of the landscape.
10. Kyoto, Japan
There’s a great list of Unesco sites to see in Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Most are temples or shrines with varying architectural styles, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple (pictured above) is one of the best known owing to the huge wooden stage that juts out of it. The expression “to jump off the stage at Kiyomizu” is the local equivalent of “taking the plunge” — and, for years, that’s exactly what people did. According to legend, if you managed the 13m drop, your wishes would be granted. Understandably, leaping off is now strictly forbidden. But simply standing up there is arguably just as thrilling, thanks to the spectacular views over the city.
Make it happen
For those short on time, the six-day Japan: Tokyo Nights & Kyoto Temples tour from G Adventures is a great introduction to the country.
11. The Great Wall of China
Stretching across the north of the country, the Great Wall of China encompasses some of the most impressive landscapes you’ll ever see. You can access the wall at various sections, the best being those close to Beijing. Badaling is ideal for those who struggle with steep climbs, with wheelchair-accessible sections as well as cable cars. Just be prepared for crowds. Less busy Jinshanling (pictured above) was initially built in the 14th century, during the Ming dynasty, with further construction in the 16th century, and is one of the best-preserved parts.
Make it happen
Exodus Adventure Travels has a nine-day Walking the Great Wall itinerary that focuses on different sections across the country.
• How to walk the Great Wall of China
12. Luxor, Egypt
Luxor has so many top sites, it’s known as an “open-air museum”; the city has the largest concentration of ancient ruins in Egypt. You could easily spend hours exploring the temple complex of Karnak (pictured above), dedicated to the Theban triad of Amun, Mut and Khonsu. Ancient burial ground Valley of the Kings is unmissable, partly thanks to the tomb of Tutankhamun. The Valley of the Queens — where the tomb of Nefertari, the wife of Ramesses the Great, lies — is also marvellous.
Make it happen
The best way to tour Luxor is on a Nile cruise. Try the Pharaohs & Pyramids tour from Viking, which includes an excursion at every port.
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