Top UNESCO Heritage Listed Sites To Visit On Your Next Trip

Lost cities. Ancient ruins. Towering pyramids. Architectural marvels. Since its inception in 1978 over 1000 ancient marvels have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites, and for those who love all things historical, seeing them all can be a daunting task. Attracting millions of tourists every year from all around the globe, UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites continue to astound and impress all who gaze upon them. Whether you’re a fan of learning the history behind our planet or just want to see some of the world’s most popular attractions, these seven UNESCO Heritage Listed sites are all must-sees during your lifetime.

Pyramids of Giza | Egypt

Built over 4000 years ago and the last standing wonder from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are a sight to behold for anyone journeying to the desert nation.

Primarily located on the outskirts of Cairo, the Pyramids make an impressive silhouette against the skyline – towering up out of the flat desert landscape and just metres from the bustling city, they need to be seen to be believed.

Flanked by the incredible Egyptian Sphinx, there are a few ways to visit these ancient structures. Choose to book a guided Egypt tour through our experienced leisure team and learn all about these ancient structures as you journey through the area, or stay in one of the many hotels within Cairo and walk through the Pyramids on your own time with your personal Egyptologist Guide.

Angkor & Angkor Wat | Cambodia

Just outside Siem Reap lies the Angkor Region, hidden within the jungles of Cambodia and home to one of the largest and most incredible religious structures in the world, Angkor Wat.

Built in the 12th century, the ancient city of Angkor was originally one of the world’s largest cities – made up of several kilometres of ancient temples, carved stone faces and steep stone staircases, it was home to nearly one million people at its peak in the 13th century, now attracting millions of visitors to the lands each year.

Now a globally-recognized UNESCO Heritage Listed site, the Angkor Region attracts visitors for several reasons – home to the famous temple of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple and so much more, there is plenty to see and photograph when visiting this vast ancient city, and it’s recommended you dedicate at least a full day to exploring the area!

Great Wall of China | China

Built in the 7th century BC and spanning almost 6,000 kilometres long, the Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most well-known and famous UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites, and for good reason.

Initially built to protect China’s territories from invading countries, today the Wall stands as one of China’s most important and iconic tourist landmarks – attracting over 10 million visitors each year, guests to the wall can walk along the top of its cobbled streets or haggle for souvenirs at the base, with plenty of deals available for those who are smart enough.

There are several ways to make the most of your time visiting this iconic Chinese landmark – pack your hiking boots and trek along the half restored and half-wild portion at Jinshanling, enjoy a night tour at the Simatai section, or plan a camping trip at the scenic Huanghuacheng section (complete with lake views)! The best part is, it’s said that the Great Wall of China can be seen from space – although our travel team hasn’t been up to confirm this yet!

Machu Picchu | Peru 

If you’re looking for a breathtaking, mind-blowing site to visit that’s complete with spectacular views, you really don’t need to look much further than Machu Picchu.

Built into the mountains of Peru high above the Urubamba River, Machu Picchu is by far one of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world. Originally built by and occupied by the Incas around the 15th century, this ancient site provides almost as many questions as it answers – how did civilisation thrive up there, why did it fall and how was the whole city built in the first place?

For those looking to visit this UNESCO Heritage Listed site, there are a few ways you can go about it. Booking a tour through Pulse Travel and allowing your experienced tour guide to show you the best parts is by far the best way to do it, otherwise you can stay at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge and head up early in the morning to explore in your own time. 

Stonehenge | England

Have you ever wondered how these near-mythical stones came to stand upright in the way that they do?

Located about 1.5 hours south-west of London, Stonehenge has long baffled historians, and for good reason. Built between 3000 to 1500 BC and made up of roughly 100 stones, this UNESCO Heritage Listed Site has left historians with many questions since its discovery. With little to no idea why the monument was used, nor any idea how it was erected in the first place, this ancient place has drawn people from all over the globe.

Drawing over one million visitors each year, there are several things to do while visiting Stonehenge. You can enter some of the rebuilt Neolithic houses nearby and understand how people lived 4,500 years ago, spend time taking in the sunset or combine your trip out to Stonehenge with a trip to Bath and some of the nearby historical towns.

If you’re going to visit Stonehenge, we recommend visiting the site either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery as the sun’s rays shoot between the stones. Our team of experienced travel agents are professionals at planning your ideal vacation and providing plenty of tips on making your experience incredible, so next time you’re planning a trip get in touch with our team!