Tower Bridge
bridge, London, United Kingdom
Written and fact-checked by
Last Updated: Sep 11, 2023 • Article History
Recent News
Sep. 11, 2023, 5:13 AM ET (CBS)
Tower Bridge dinner marks 10 years with another dazzling dining experience
Sep. 4, 2023, 11:36 PM ET (BBC)
Tower Bridge: Sugar sculpture by Sussex artist to go on display
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, movable bridge of the double-leaf bascule (drawbridge) type that spans the River Thames between the Greater London boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Southwark. It is a distinct landmark that aesthetically complements the Tower of London, which it adjoins.
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
See how the Tower Bridge mimics the Tower of London's architecture and learn about its steam-powered past
See how the Tower Bridge mimics the Tower of London's architecture and learn about its steam-powered pastSee all videos for this article
The bridge was completed in 1894. It is about 240 metres (800 feet) in length and provides an opening 76 metres (250 feet) wide. Its twin towers rise 61 metres (200 feet) above the Thames. Between the towers stretch a pair of glass-covered walkways that are popular among tourists. The walkways were originally designed to allow pedestrians to cross even while the bridge was raised, but they became hangouts for prostitutes and thieves and so were closed from 1909 to 1982. The Tower Bridge was operated by hydraulic pumps driven by steam until 1976, when electric motors were put into operation; the steam power system is still kept (in good repair) as a tourist display. Because of the reduction in shipping at the London Docklands, however, the leaves are now seldom raised.
The northern terminus of the Akashi Strait Bridge in Terumi ward, southern Kobe, Hyogo prefecture, west-central Japan. The bridge spans the Akashi Strait and links Awaji Island to Honshu.
Britannica Quiz
Bridge Quiz
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.
River Thames
Table of Contents
Introduction
Physical features
Touring the Thames
Economic factors
References & Edit History
Related Topics
Images & Videos
East End of London, c. 1900River ThamesTower of LondonThames Barrier
See how London's Thames Barrier combats flooding caused by the reversal of water flow in the River Thames when levels rise in the North Sea
Tower BridgeHenley Royal RegattaMillennium BridgeTower BridgeThames Barrier
For Students
River Thames summary
Quizzes
water glass on white background. (drink; clear; clean water; liquid)
Water and its Varying Forms
Related Questions
What is Big Ben?
How is Big Ben powered?
Read Next
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - APRIL 16, 2014: Victoria and Albert Museum interior view. V&A Museum is the world's largest museum of decorative arts and design.
15 Paintings to See at the Victoria and Albert Museum
Queen Elizabeth II on her Coronation Day (June 2, 1953) holding the Sovereign's Sceptre with Cross in her right hand the Orb in her left, in an embroidered and beaded dress by Norman Hartnell, a crimson velvet mantle edged with ermine fur, with the Coronation ring, the Coronation necklace, and the Imperial State Crown. The backdrop depicts the interior of Westminster Abbey; photograph by Cecil Beaton. (British royals)
5 Fascinating British Coronation Objects
The Pond Gardens, Hampton Court palace and garden, London, England. (horizontal)
9 Palaces in England
King Charles III and Queen Camilla (Camilla, Queen Consort) wave from the balcony of Buckingham Palace during the Coronation of King Charles in London, England on May 6, 2023
British Royal Line of Succession
London Tube bombings of 2005 for use on BTN/SPT
10th Anniversary of the London Bombings
Discover
Close up of books. Stack of books, pile of books, literature, reading. Homepage 2010, arts and entertainment, history and society
12 Novels Considered the “Greatest Book Ever Written”
Joan of Arc, in the presence of Charles VII, King of France, answers the questions of the prelates; she anounces her mission and the visions which have revealed her task. Gillot Saint-Evre, Oil on Canvas, 142 x 167 cm. In the Louvre, Paris, France (notes)
6 Teenagers Who Made History
American rapper and actor Tupac Shakur, 1993 (Lesane Parish Crooks, Tupac Amaru Shakur)
Who Killed Tupac Shakur?
Secret Service Agent Listens To Earpiece
Secret Service Code Names of 11 U.S. Presidents
Still from the film Deliverance, 1919. The story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan. View shows Keller in the cockpit/front seat of an airplane.
How Did Helen Keller Fly a Plane?
Nelson Mandela, undated.
15 Nelson Mandela Quotes
William Shakespeare
The Death of Shakespeare
Home
Geography & Travel
Physical Geography of Water
Rivers & Canals
Geography & Travel
River Thames
river, England, United Kingdom
Also known as: River Isis, Tamesa, Tamesis
Written by
Fact-checked by
Last Updated: Sep 21, 2023 • Article History
Recent News
Sep. 21, 2023, 4:49 AM ET (Yahoo News UK)
Historic property with No 1 The Thames address has been snapped up for half the price of average UK house
Sep. 19, 2023, 2:37 AM ET (BBC)
Princess Anne launches new Oxfordshire SEND river initiative
East End of London, c. 1900
East End of London, c. 1900
River Thames, ancient Tamesis or Tamesa, also called (in Oxford, England) River Isis, chief river of southern England. Rising in the Cotswold Hills, its basin covers an area of approximately 5,500 square miles (14,250 square km). The traditional source at Thames Head, which is dry for much of the year, is marked by a stone in a field 356 feet (108.5 metres) above sea level and 3 miles (5 km) southwest of the town of Cirencester. Some think a tributary, the River Churn, has a better claim to being the source; it rises near the village of Seven Springs (700 feet [213 metres] above sea level), just south of Cheltenham.
Physical features
River Thames
River Thames
The Thames is some 205 miles (330 km) long, running 140 miles (226 km) from the source to the tidal waters limit—i.e., from Thames Head to Teddington Lock—and, as an estuary, a further 65 miles (104 km) from there to The Nore sandbank, which marks the transition from estuary to open sea. Its basin, which receives an annual average precipitation of 27 inches (688 mm), has a complex structure. In its upper course the river drains a broadly triangular area defined by the chalk escarpment of the Chiltern Hills and the Berkshire Downs to the east and south, the Cotswolds to the west, and the Northamptonshire uplands to the north. At Goring Gap it cuts through the chalk escarpment and then drains the land lying north of the dip slope of the North Downs. Its last great tributary, the River Medway, drains much of the low-lying Weald area of Kent and Sussex to the south of London.
Tower of London
Tower of London
Flowing through gently rolling lowlands, the distinctive character of the Thames is pastoral and undramatic. Its average fall between Lechlade and London is less than 20 inches per mile (32 cm per km). The tides and surges of the sea, moreover, have a profound effect on the water level of the river’s lower course. This tidal influence begins to be felt intermittently, for some three hours during a high tide, at Teddington in the west suburbs of London. The transition from freshwater to estuarine reaches occurs closer to central London, around Battersea. At London Bridge, in the heart of the metropolis, the river rises 22 feet (7 metres) on the spring tides and 18 feet (5.5 metres) on the neap tides.
water glass on white background. (drink; clear; clean water; liquid)
Britannica Quiz
Water and its Varying Forms
Thames Barrier
Thames Barrier
See how London's Thames Barrier combats flooding caused by the reversal of water flow in the River Thames when levels rise in the North Sea
See how London's Thames Barrier combats flooding caused by the reversal of water flow in the River Thames when levels rise in the North SeaSee all videos for this article
The average flow at the upper limit of the tideway, at Teddington, is 1,856 cubic feet (53 cubic metres) per second, rising to 4,640 cubic feet (130 cubic metres) per second after winter rain. In extreme floods (e.g., March 1947) the discharge at Teddington Weir may be as much as 20,900 cubic feet (590 cubic metres) per second. Reputedly, an average of 31,310 cubic feet (887 cubic metres) per second passed over it one day after heavy storms in 1894. The river in spate can upset tidal flows for some distance below Teddington, overpowering the incoming tide and causing the stream to run seaward continuously for days on end. Conversely, high spring tides can overtop the weir and affect the river flow as far as 2 miles (3.2 km) upstream of Teddington. The catastrophic potential of tidal surges for London’s underground infrastructure, buildings, and population prompted the construction of the Thames Barrier at Silvertown (completed 1982) and extensive complementary flood defenses along the entire tideway.
Touring the Thames
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
The Thames is navigable by small boat up to the town bridge of Cricklade, close to the source, though motor cruisers and barges must turn at Lechlade, 10 miles (16 km) downstream. Meandering gently through lowlands for the first 28 miles (45 km) between Cricklade and Oxford, the river passes Kelmscott Manor—the gabled stone home of the 19th-century designer, socialist, and poet William Morris, who is buried in the village churchyard. Before reaching Oxford, the Thames (or Isis, its literary epithet) swings in a northward loop around the wooded hills of Wytham and Cumnor, which overlook the city from the west. A side stream at Wolvercote leads to the mill where fine paper was made for Oxford University Press from the early 17th century to 1943. Braided into many backwaters around the gravelly site of the celebrated university town, the river in summer is alive with elegant flat-bottomed punts, rowing eights, and skiffs. Decorated narrowboats (canal barges) may also be seen making their way to or from the West Midlands and the north of England via the Oxford Canal.
The Thames at Oxford is 150 feet (46 metres) wide. Reinforced by three tributaries from the north—the Rivers Windrush, Evenlode, and Cherwell—it swings southward past the woods of Nuneham to the market town of Abingdon. There it collects the River Ock, which drains the Vale of White Horse. The Thames then trends east and south by the ancient towns of Dorchester (with its 14th-century abbey) and Wallingford. Passing between the Chiltern Hills and the Berkshire Downs at Goring Gap, it is joined by the Great Western Railway (London to Penzance) in a beautiful valley with beech woods rising to either side. It emerges from the chalk escarpment at Pangbourne to collect the River Pang. There the banker and author Kenneth Grahame wrote about the joys of “messing about in boats” in the opening chapters of The Wind in the Willows.
Henley Royal Regatta
Henley Royal Regatta
Soon afterward the Thames enters Reading, where it is joined by the River Kennet. Following the dip slope of the Chilterns, it loops north to Henley-on-Thames, scene of a celebrated annual rowing regatta, then east and south again toward Maidenhead, passing below Cliveden House (former home of the Astor family and now owned by the National Trust). From there it maintains a broadly easterly course, passing by Eton College, royal Windsor Castle, and Runnymede, where Magna Carta was drafted in 1215. It is joined by the River Colne on the northern bank at Staines.
On the approaches to London, villas lining the riverbanks and the “gin palace” cruisers at private moorings make an ostentatious display of wealth. But the Thames is also a great popular playground, with thousands of acres of public parkland along its banks and intensive (and sometimes conflicting) use by sunbathers, swimmers, walkers, fishermen, rowers, canoeists, dinghy sailors, campers, and bird-watchers. Less visibly, the river thereabouts provides the metropolis with the greater part of its water supply. Some 63.6 million cubic feet (1.8 million cubic metres) are diverted per day between Windsor and Hampton on London’s western periphery and pumped to large storage reservoirs prior to treatment and distribution. The same water eventually rejoins the Thames by way of the giant sewage-treatment facilities at Mogden to the west of London and at Beckton and Crossness to the east.
At Teddington the river is 250 feet (76 metres) wide. The embanked tideway broadens steadily to 750 feet (229 metres) at London Bridge, 2,100 feet (640 metres) at Gravesend, and 5.5 miles (9 km) at The Nore. The tidal Thames is joined by the Brent at Brentford, the Wandle at Wandsworth, the Ravensbourne at Deptford, the Lea at Blackwall, the Darent just east of Erith, and its greatest tributary, the Medway, at Rochester.
Millennium Bridge
Millennium Bridge
Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge
Thames Barrier
Thames Barrier
The urban Thames was once best admired from the deck of one of its many scheduled passenger boats. It can now also be viewed to striking advantage from the Millennium Bridge (2000; retrofitted and reopened 2002), the only bridge across the Thames that is solely for pedestrians, and from the London Eye, a sort of enormous Ferris wheel. Other outstanding riverside landmarks on a boat voyage through London include Kew Gardens, the Tate Britain, the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, the Tate Modern, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, the former Royal Naval College and the Millennium Dome at Greenwich, and the gleaming steel of the Thames Barrier, the last marking the transition to estuarine flatlands.
London has exerted a dominant influence on the river for centuries. A statute of 1393 granted powers to its citizens to remove weirs from the Thames, and the lord mayor of London’s water bailiffs enforced rights of navigation thereafter. An act of Parliament in 1771 enabled Thames commissioners to build locks along the river upstream of Maidenhead, while the Corporation of London carried out similar improvements on the lower stretches of the river. By the beginning of the 19th century, a busy cargo traffic extended upstream to Lechlade, where a canal link (now defunct) connected through the Cotswolds to the River Severn by way of the two-mile-long Sapperton Tunnel, opened in 1789. The origins of the modern system of water control were in place, as were the river’s 48 navigation locks. The grandest, Teddington Lock (1811), is 650 feet (198 metres) long with three sets of gates and is capable of taking a tugboat and six barges at one time.
The Thames is crossed at a number of points, including 16 bridges in Greater London alone. Most are road and rail bridges, but some, such as the Golden Jubilee Bridges and the aforementioned Millennium Bridge accommodate pedestrians. There are also two foot tunnels, one at Greenwich and the other at Woolwich, and a number of road and rail tunnels. The Woolwich Ferry links Woolwich in the borough of Greenwich with North Woolwich in Newham.
Economic factors
Identifying the River Thames as a crucial link between London and the sea and recounting the history behind London Docklands as a principal trading hub
Identifying the River Thames as a crucial link between London and the sea and recounting the history behind London Docklands as a principal trading hubSee all videos for this article
As on other rivers and canals in Britain, commercial waterway traffic declined steadily during the 20th century to the point of near extinction after World War II. Less inevitable, perhaps, was the collapse of seagoing traffic on the Thames in London—in notable contrast to Rotterdam, Netherlands. From 1970 the Port of London Authority concentrated all its investment in modern cargo-handling technology at Tilbury, 20 miles (32 km) downstream of the metropolis. The unwelcoming but functional industrial landscape of the London riverfront and docks was rapidly transformed beginning in the 1980s, as wharves and processing plants gave way to apartment and office buildings, promenades, and parks. The river was biologically dead in the 1950s, but changing land use together with improved pollution control have brought dramatic improvements in the quality of the water and a renewed abundance of fish. See also London Docklands.
130 Most Famous Landmarks in the World
Destguides may receive commissions from purchases made through affiliate links in this article.
Looking over rooftops and round dome tops of ancient buildings in a city
Looking out over the many famous landmarks in Rome, Italy
As defined by the Oxford University Press, a landmark is a notable structure or characteristic of a landscape that allows you to decipher the location you are in. Landmarks can include historical, cultural, natural, and human-made constructions. Buildings and monuments can also be included.
While this list tries to succinctly capture some of the most famous landmarks in the world, it's truly a hard task to do, and it is by no means exhaustive. We have, however, tried to cover a wide variety of remarkable and unique landmarks from around the world in no particular order.
So, without further ado, and with the help of other travel experts, here are some of the most famous landmarks around the world that you should consider visiting at least once in your lifetime!
130 Most Famous Places in the World
Golden Gate Bridge, San Fransisco, California, USA
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California, USA
Yosemite National Park, California, USA
The Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, California, USA
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC, New York, USA
Empire State Building, NYC, New York, USA
Statue of Liberty, NYC, New York, USA
Central Park, NYC, New York, USA
One World Trade Center, NYC, New York, USA
Chrysler Building, NYC, New York, USA
Ellis Island, NYC, New York, USA
Times Square, NYC, New York, USA
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, USA
Cloud Gate, Chicago, Illinois, USA
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
The Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Hoover Dam, Nevada, USA
Space Needle, Seattle, Washington, USA
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA
Delicate Arch, Arches National Park, Utah, USA
Everglades National Park, Florida, USA
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA
Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii, USA
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA
Washington Monument, Washington D.C., USA
The White House, Washington D.C., USA
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Great Wall of China, China
The Terracotta Army Museum, Xi'An, Shaanxi, China
Mount Everest, China
Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia
Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia
Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, Australia
Palace of Versailles, Versailles, France
Saint Michael's Mount, Normandy, France
Cité de Carcassonne, Carcassonne, France
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Montmartre, Paris, France
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France
Louvre Museum, Paris, France
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
Moulin Rouge, Paris, France
Milan Cathedral, Milan, Italy
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
St. Mark's Square, Venice, Italy
Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy
Mount Vesuvius, Ottaviano, Italy
Pompeii, Naples, Italy
Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy
Largo di Torre Argentina, Rome, Italy
Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Italy
Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, Italy
Stonehenge, Salisbury, England
Big Ben, London, England
Buckingham Palace, London, England
Palace of Westminster, London, England
The London Eye, London, England
The Shard, London, England
Tower Bridge, London, England
Westminster Abbey, London, England
Malham Cove, Malham, England
Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto, Japan
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Japan
Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan
Mount Fuji, Shizuoka, Japan
Gibraltar Nature Reserve, Gibraltar
Dom Luis Bridge, Porto, Portugal
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore, Singapore
Merlion, Singapore, Singapore
La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain
La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
CN Tower, Toronto, Canada
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Peggy's Point Lighthouse, Nova Scotia, Canada
Saint Joseph's Oratory, Montreal, Canada
Giant's Causeway, Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Tulum Archaeological Zone, Tulum, Mexico
Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City, Mexico
Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany
Berlin Wall Memorial, Berlin, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany
Tian Tan Buddha, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Machu Picchu, Andes Mountains, Peru
Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Selaron Steps, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
The Meeting of the Waters, Manaus, Brazil
Amazon Rainforest, Amazonas, Brazil
Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Iguazu Falls, Misiones Province, Argentina
Chornobyl, Ukraine
Taipei 101, Taipei, Taiwan
Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Zambia
The Valley of Kings, Luxor, Egypt
Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Egypt
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Panama Canal, Panama City, Panama
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland
Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan
Dubrovnik City Walls, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest, Hungary
Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, Switzerland
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland
Mount Bromo, East Java, Indonesia
Atomium, Brussels, Belgium
Show all
Worldwide Landmarks Video
Check out our highlights video of Worldwide landmarks.
World Map With Famous Landmarks
A map of Worldwide landmarks. Use the map to explore all of the points of interest.
World Map With Famous Landmarks
Show Interactive Map
LANDMARK 1
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world
The Golden Gate Bridge was completed in 1937
Golden Gate Bridge, San Fransisco, California, USA
Get directions
The Golden Gate Bridge is an iconic landmark in San Francisco. The large red suspension bridge is synonymous with California and receives an average of ten million visitors each year.
Completed in 1937, visitors to the Golden Gate Bridge can bike or walk across it and take in the great views of San Francisco Bay. If in California, ensure a trip to the bridge is on your San Fransisco itinerary!
LANDMARK 2
Mountains in the backdrop of a fortified island with buildings and a lighthouse
Known as the world's inescapable prison, Alcatraz Island is now a tourist attraction
Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California, USA
Visit website Get directions
Located on the US West Coast near San Francisco, Alcatraz Island is known as the world's inescapable prison. Alcatraz was an active penitentiary between 1934 and 1963, and its secure location meant prison breaks were impossible. Today, the site is a popular tourist attraction, and Alcatraz has been featured in many films.
LANDMARK 3
Girl With Blue SailsMountain peaks and ranges surrounded by greenery and blue sky
Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Visit website Get directions
Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous landmarks in California. Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite is an iconic Golden State symbol.
One of the most popular things to do in Yosemite is visiting Yosemite Falls. At 2,425 feet, it's the tallest waterfall in North America. Visitors can hike to the base or try a more strenuous hike to the top. Glacier Point is another fantastic thing to see when visiting this famous West Coast national park.
LANDMARK 4
Yuichiro/Depositphotos.comWhite-letter signs spelling out Hollywood on a green hill, on a clear day
The popular Hollywood Sign stands 45 feet tall and spans 350 feet
The Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, California, USA
Visit website Get directions
Sitting in the hills overlooking Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign is one of the most well-known landmarks worldwide. The iconic sign is 350 feet in length and 45 feet tall.
You can view this famous Los Angeles landmark from various places in the city. Getting a picture of the famous sign is, of course, one of the top things to do in LA!
LANDMARK 5
kmiragaya/Depositphotos.comWater fountain and people in front of a Gothic-style, cream-coloured building
Housing over two million artworks, The Met is the largest museum in the US
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as The Met, is a world-renowned art museum in Manhattan. The Met also holds the title of the largest art museum in the US.
When visiting the museum, you'll discover numerous art pieces, with the museum housing over two million artworks in total. It's also a great spot for a date night in NYC.
LANDMARK 6
Albachiaraa/Depositphotos.comA tall structure with a spire on top with other skyscrapers and a blue sky around
The Empire State Building observation decks offer great views of NYC
Empire State Building, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Empire State Building is another of the famous landmarks in the world found in New York City. The 102-storey Art Deco building has been in New York City since the 1930s.
Today, visitors can head to the observation decks to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Manhattan and greater NYC. Going to the top about an hour before sunset allows you to enjoy daytime, sunset, and night city views. Appreciating the building itself from street level is a must too!
LANDMARK 7
A big green statue of a robed woman holding a torch on top of a pedestal
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the US
Statue of Liberty, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Statue of Liberty in New York is one of the most recognizable world landmarks. This 151-feet high symbol of independence has been in NYC since 1886 and today receives 3.5 million visitors a year.
The statue was a gift from France to the US. It was designed by French architects Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and Gustave Eiffel. If visiting, take a boat to Liberty Island and go into the statue's crown for stunning views of New York City.
LANDMARK 8
Pond and grassy field surrounded by colourful trees with skyscrapers in the back
The famous Central Park is one of the most-visited parks in the world
Central Park, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
Central Park is one of the most well-known urban parks in the world. Located in Manhattan, the park covers 843 acres and welcomes over 40 million visitors annually. The park includes open green spaces, water features, and a zoo. Visiting the scenic park has to be on your NYC itinerary!
LANDMARK 9
A glass-covered skyscraper in the midst of other buildings against some clouds
Rising 541 meters tall, One World Trade Center is a well-known Manhattan skyscraper
One World Trade Center, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
One World Trade Center is one of Manhattan's most famous buildings. The skyscraper was built after the original World Trade Center complex was destroyed in the 9/11 terror attacks.
An interesting NYC fact is that One World Trade Center is the tallest building in North America, standing at 541 metres tall. Having dinner at the top of the One World Observatory is also one of the best things to do in NYC at night.
LANDMARK 10
Jllado/Depositphotos.comWhite skyscraper capped with a terraced crown and a steel spire among other buildings
The Chrysler Building was built in 1928
Chrysler Building, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
Constructed in 1928, the Chrysler Building has stood in NYC for almost 100 years. The Art Deco skyscraper is a prominent feature on the Manhattan skyline and has 77 floors. When in New York, going to the Chrysler Building observation deck is recommended to get breathtaking views of the city.
LANDMARK 11
A red brick building on an island with a US flag and water in front of it
Ellis Island was an immigration center and now houses a museum
Ellis Island, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
Another one of the important landmarks in New York is Ellis Island. Situated on the border between New York and New Jersey, this landmark was previously an immigration centre for newly-landed individuals in the United States.
The main building on the island was built in 1900. It was used as a hospital until 1911 and as an immigration centre until 1954. Today, you can visit a museum to learn more about the landmark's history.
LANDMARK 12
masterlu/Depositphotos.comLooking up at two yellow cars in the middle of a road lined with buildings and TVs
Times Square became famous in the 1990s when it was "cleaned up"
Times Square, NYC, New York, USA
Visit website Get directions
Times Square is another world-renowned attraction in Manhattan. The site became famous in the 1990s when it was renovated from a run-down area to the entertainment and tourist attraction known today.
Visitors can take in the bustling atmosphere and see many vibrant signs and billboards. There are also unique street performers, theatres, and fun shops to visit, like an M&M store.
LANDMARK 13
Sculptures of four faces carved into a mountain against a clear blue sky
The world-famous Mount Rushmore features four US presidents
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, USA
Visit website Get directions
Another of the most famous monuments around the world that are found in the US is Mount Rushmore. Located in South Dakota, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a sculpture carved into the mountain.
The sculpture features the busts of four US presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Having admired Mount Rushmore, you can visit an on-site museum covering the mountain's history.
LANDMARK 14
Cloud Gate, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Visit website Get directions
Cloud Gate is an iconic symbol of Chicago. This famous landmark in Chicago is commonly referred to as 'The Bean' because the structure resembles the shape.
Interestingly, 80% of its surface reflects the surrounding city landscape and sky. Due to this landmark's uniqueness, visitors travel from around the globe to see the magnificent work of art by Sir Anish Mikhail Kapoor.
During your stay in Chicago, other places to explore include the Chicago Cultural Center, Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden.
LANDMARK 15
A welcome neon sign with palm trees and buildings in the background
Just off of the strip is the iconic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada" sign
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Get directions
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign is another world-renowned attraction. This iconic Vegas landmark sits just off of the strip, and making the journey to the sign is highly recommended.
Getting a picture with the words "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" behind you is the ultimate Vegas memento, so be sure to visit this famous Nevada landmark!
LANDMARK 16
The Las Vegas Strip, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Get directions
The Strip is the most recognizable part of the world-famous place of Las Vegas. The 4.2-mile-long street features many landmarks and illuminated signs and buildings.
Things to see here include replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the New York skyline and numerous world-class Vegas hotels. Walking along the Strip is a must-do fun and cheap Las Vegas activity!
LANDMARK 17
Top view of a concrete arched dam and a concrete-steel arched bridge across a canyon
The Hoover Dam is a popular landmark located between Nevada and Arizona
Hoover Dam, Nevada, USA
Visit website Get directions
Located between Clark County, Nevada, and Mohave County, Arizona, the Hoover Dam is a notable human-made structure. The vast site includes the concrete arch-gravity dam, a water basin, and the Mike O'Callaghan - Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge.
If visiting Las Vegas, a day trip to the Hoover Dam is one of the fun things to do off of the Vegas strip, whether alone or with a significant other.
LANDMARK 18
dibrova/Depositphotos.comA UFO-shaped structure at the top of a tower amidst other buildings during sunset
The Space Needle, rising 605 feet, is built to withstand strong earthquakes and winds
Space Needle, Seattle, Washington, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Space Needle is one of the most famous landmarks in Seattle, Washington State. This attraction is a 605-foot observation tower that was constructed in 1961.
Interestingly, the tower was designed to withstand incredibly high winds and earthquakes. Viewing this famous Washington landmark and going to the observation deck can't be missed when in Seattle!
LANDMARK 19
The Wandering QueenA snow-capped mountain peak at the back with mountain ranges in front
The picturesque Mount Rainer from afar
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington, USA
Visit website Get directions
The beautiful Mount Rainier National Park is another of the world-famous places in the United States. Located in Washington State, the park features views of the Mount Rainier volcano, plus waterfalls, rivers, fire lookouts, and old grove trees.
Along with the incredible views, the park is a great place to hike, with the most popular trail taking you to Comet Falls. This Mount Rainier National Park hike is perfect for keeping yourself entertained on gloomy Pacific Northwest days.
LANDMARK 20
Scenic and SavvyA uniquely-shaped sandstone arch surrounded by canyons at sunset
The beautiful Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, Utah
Delicate Arch, Arches National Park, Utah, USA
Visit website Get directions
Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, Utah, is one of the most famous geologic formations in the world. More than 1.5 million people visit this park each year to hike to Delicate Arch, a famous Utah landmark.
The hiking trail is a moderate three-mile roundtrip. However, note that there is no shade along the route, and it can get very hot during the day. Therefore, the best way to see the arch is to embark on a Delicate Arch sunset hike when temperatures are cooler.
LANDMARK 21
Everglades National Park, Florida, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Florida Everglades is one of the best national parks on the East Coast. This incredible world landmark features a slow-moving watershed system. It flows from central Florida into Lake Okeechobee and down into Southwest Florida.
Hiking, paddling, and camping in Everglades National Park and the Big Cypress Preserve are fun activities to enjoy. But, for more of a thrill, go gliding along the river of grass on an airboat ride!
LANDMARK 22
Our Woven JourneyA vast dry canyon landscape against blue sky from above
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Grand Canyon is a natural landmark in Arizona so sizable you can see it from space! The canyon is 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. Without seeing it in person, it's hard to grasp how vast it is!
If you get to visit, make the most of your trip by planning your route ahead of time, especially if you are visiting from Page, AZ. Watching the sunrise at the Grand Canyon is another popular activity.
LANDMARK 23
White memorial with a US flag on it along water, with trees and clouds in the back
Pearl Harbor Memorial is the final resting place of the WWII Japanese attack victims
Pearl Harbor, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA
Visit website Get directions
The Pearl Harbor Memorial in Hawaii is a must-see sight. This important landmark in Honolulu marks the site of the WWII Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.
At the memorial, you can view the final resting place of those lost in the tragedy. You'll also learn more about how Pearl Harbor led to the US increasing its efforts in WWII.
LANDMARK 24
Palm trees on a grassy field with a view of a volcano in the back at sunrise
The 300,000-year-old Diamond Head State Monument offers views of the coast
Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, USA
Visit website Get directions
Another landmark of the world found in Honolulu is the Diamond Head State Monument. A fun Honolulu fact that makes this attraction so famous is that Diamond Head State Monument is over 300,000 years old!
When visiting this well-known Hawaiian landmark, you can follow hiking trails and appreciate the beautiful views.
LANDMARK 25
Looking down at layers of cooled lava on a brown grassy hilltop
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is made up of two active volcanoes
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii, USA
Visit website Get directions
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is one of the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. The park is home to two active volcanoes, the Kilauea volcano, and the Mauna Loa volcano.
You can explore the park in many ways, including hiking or mountain biking. Many also opt for helicopter tours that fly over the volcanoes.
LANDMARK 26
Small US flags planted in front of tombstones arranged in a grid on a grassy field
Many notable individuals are buried in the famous Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Virginia, USA
Visit website Get directions
Arlington National Cemetery is arguably the most famous cemetery in the United States and one of the most famous landmarks in Virginia. This military cemetery is located in Arlington, Virginia, close to central Washington D.C.
Notable individuals buried here include President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jackie Kennedy Onassis. There are also many graves of former US soldiers, plus memorials to those who have given their lives in conflict.
LANDMARK 27
Ducks on a pool reflecting a white obelisk surrounded by trees on a partly cloudy day
The Washington Monument was constructed in 1884
Washington Monument, Washington D.C., USA
Visit website Get directions
Located in central Washington, D.C., the Washington Monument is another of the world's most important landmarks. The monument was constructed in 1884 and is a 555-feet-tall marble obelisk.
The attraction is dedicated to George Washington and features an observation deck that provides sweeping views of D.C. It is a must on your Washington D.C. itinerary!
LANDMARK 28
A large white mansion with a big green lawn in front and trees around
The White House is home to the US President
The White House, Washington D.C., USA
Visit website Get directions
Home to the U.S. President, the White House is one of the most iconic buildings in North America. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington D.C., the White House has housed every U.S. President from 1800 to the present. Parts of this Washington D.C. landmark are open to the public. If in the city, taking a tour is recommended.
LANDMARK 29
Looking down at a blue thermal spring in the ground, with a green hill behind
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA
Visit website Get directions
Yellowstone National Park is located predominantly in Wyoming, with a small part of the over two million-acre park stretching into Montana and Idaho.
The park was the US' first National Park, gaining the status on March 1, 1872. Visitors to the park can hike, see an array of wildlife, and spot other famous landmarks, like Old Faithful, a large geothermal geyser.
LANDMARK 30
Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
Get directions
Sigiriya Rock Fortress in Sri Lanka stands as one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Created by an ancient volcano, the 200-metre-high rock formation is striking against the jungle of Sigiriya. In the 5th century, the Royal Palace of Sri Lanka was also built on the site.
Today, when visiting Sigiriya, you can admire the fortress and see Lion Gate, the main entrance to the royal city. Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a true marvel and a must on your Sri Lanka itinerary!
LANDMARK 31
Imaginechina-Tuchong/Depositphotos.comA walled walkway with watchtowers winding on top of a lush mountain range
The Great Wall of China, spanning 21,196 km, took 2,300 years to complete
Great Wall of China, China
Get directions
The Great Wall of China is one of China's most famous landmarks. The 21,196 km wall also has one of the longest construction times of all the world landmarks, taking 2,300 years to complete.
Today, the wall traverses 15 Chinese regions and is a tourist hotspot. It attracts over ten million visitors annually, with the most popular way to access the Great Wall being from Badaling, outside Beijing. From the wall, you can appreciate the views and this piece of historical architecture.
LANDMARK 32
vichie81/Depositphotos.comNumerous terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots in a large pit under a steel roof
The sculptures were created to be buried with Emperor Qin as his afterlife army
The Terracotta Army Museum, Xi'An, Shaanxi, China
Get directions
One of the most exciting landmarks to visit is the Terracotta Army Museum in China. The museum features famous terracotta statues of the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. These sculptures were created to be buried with the emperor. In doing so, people believe he would have an army in the afterlife.
LANDMARK 33
Mount Everest, China
Get directions
Mount Everest is one of the world's most famous mountains. It stretches across parts of China and Nepal. Standing at 29,032 feet above sea level, approximately 800 people attempt to climb the mountain each year. If you don't want to climb, you can still appreciate Everest from various places near the base.
LANDMARK 34
Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia
Visit website Get directions
The Twelve Apostles are found along the Great Ocean Road in Australia. This landmark comprises stacks of limestone that stand near one another along the coastline of Victoria.
This site attracts millions of visitors who want to witness its beauty. Things to do in the area include taking an iconic picture from the viewing platform and hiking The Great Ocean Road Walk. You could even take a helicopter ride over the Twelve Apostles to get the best view!
LANDMARK 35
Various colourful tropical fish swimming around corals of different colours and sizes
The Great Barrier Reef, the largest reef ecosystem, offers a variety of activities
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia
Visit website Get directions
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest reef ecosystem, comprising over 3,000 separate reefs. The breathtaking marine landmark is home to an incredible array of sea creatures, corals, and plants. You can boat, snorkel, and dive around the reef, but always adhere to eco-tourism practices.
LANDMARK 36
Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia
Visit website Get directions
Uluru, or Ayres Rock, is found in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, close to the town of Alice Springs. This famous Australian landmark is one of the oldest monoliths in the world, having been formed about half-a-billion years ago. When in the park, you can appreciate Uluru and see rare plants and wildlife.
LANDMARK 37
Waves breaking on a sandy shore with a cityscape in the background on a clear day
Aside from sand, water and waves, Bondi Beach is also known for its beachside bars
Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Visit website Get directions
Sydney's Bondi Beach is one of the world's most well-known beaches. The spectacular beach features sandy beaches and warm waters.
Bondi Beach's reliable waves also draw thousands of surfers. In addition, the surrounding selection of beachside bars and cafes adds to this iconic beach's atmosphere.
LANDMARK 38
Sharing the WanderThe outside of an opera house with white pointy tops along water and buildings
The famous Sydney Opera House can be found in Australia
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Visit website Get directions
The iconic sail-like structures of the Sydney Opera House are a symbol of Sydney. Sitting next to Sydney Harbour, it's one of the most famous places around the world and one of the most photographed!
It took 14 years to build, opening in 1973, and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. Visitors can tour the structure or attend a concert. For a unique view of the Opera House, climb the Harbour Bridge, an activity that must be on your Australia family travel bucket list!
LANDMARK 39
Nyker/Depositphotos.comA steel arched bridge over water from below with a city skyline in the background
The Sydney Harbour Bridge offers great views of other famous Sydney landmarks
Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, Australia
Get directions
Sydney Harbour Bridge is a highly recognizable feature on the Sydney skyline. The heritage-listed bridge stretches for 3,770 feet and connects Sydney's CBD to its North Shore.
The bridge was completed in 1932 and was inspired by Hell Gate Bridge in New York. Notably, it was the world's widest long-span bridge until 2012.
Interested in getting out of the city for a weekend? You have plenty of options for Sydney weekend getaways, including the Blue Mountains or Byron Bay.
LANDMARK 40
World in ParisA massive palace with water and a statue in front against a blue sky
The Palace of Versailles on a clear blue day
Palace of Versailles, Versailles, France
Visit website Get directions
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most beautiful castles near Paris. It's also one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
The Palace of Versailles is the best example of Baroque architecture in France. The château was home to three French Kings and their families: Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI.
The visit to Versailles usually takes one full day. You can also visit the Queen's Hamlet and gardens decorated with sculptures and water features.
LANDMARK 41
Guide Your TravelGothic-style palace on a small hilly island far away from behind white flowers
Mont Saint-Michel from far away
Saint Michael's Mount, Normandy, France
Visit website Get directions
Mont Saint-Michel stands in Normandy, northern France. The building dates back to the 8th century and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Today it's a popular tourist destination, with millions of people visiting every year.
If you plan to visit, note that the island itself is relatively small, but there are still many things to see and do. The historic abbey is a popular attraction, and the great lookout points around Mont Saint-Michel are also impressive.
LANDMARK 42
Travel France Bucket ListA grey castle with walls on a hill overlooking a historic city
Cité de Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Cité de Carcassonne, Carcassonne, France
Get directions
One of the most beautiful French landmarks is Cité de Carcassonne. Located in the Occitanie region, this landmark is a medieval citadel featuring a castle and church dating from the 12th century.
Carcassonne's main highlight is the ramparts, which you can climb and explore on a self-guided tour. From the top, you can enjoy views of the countryside, the Ville Basse, and Lower Carcassonne. Shops with souvenirs and a museum related to the citadel's history are also in the area.
LANDMARK 43
Stairs leading to a white basilica atop a hill surrounded by greenery
Sacré-Cœur is a Roman Catholic church that sits on the highest point in Paris
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Montmartre, Paris, France
Visit website Get directions
Paris is filled with breathtaking landmarks, including the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. This spectacular Roman Catholic Church opened in 1914 and is one of France's most visited places.
The basilica sits on Montmartre, the highest point in the City of Lights. Visiting the church and exploring the charming area around can't be missed!
LANDMARK 44
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Visit website Get directions
The Eiffel Tower, one of the most romantic places in Paris, was built for the 1889 World's Fair. It was notably the tallest human-made structure in the world until 1930.
Although the Iron Lady is now a Paris bucket list item, Parisians hated it at the beginning, with many signing a petition to remove it.
Today, Parisians and tourists love the Eiffel Tower and often include it on their Paris itinerary. When visiting, climbing the 674 steps to the tower's viewing deck is recommended.
LANDMARK 45
A massive arch with ornate decorations at daytime from below
Arc de Triomphe is a popular monument commissioned by Napoleon
Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France
Get directions
Paris has multiple world-famous landmarks, and the Arc de Triomphe is one of the most visited. This ornately decorated arch was commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806. However, Arc de Triomphe was not completed until 1836.
Visitors to Paris must visit the arch to take in its beauty and get lots of pictures! You can also climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of the City of Lights.
LANDMARK 46
revoc9/Depositphotos.comIlluminated glass pyramid and palace reflected in fountain water at night
Louvre Museum, the world's most-visited museum, is home to the Mona Lisa
Louvre Museum, Paris, France
Visit website Get directions
The Louvre is another famous French landmark known around the world. A fun fact about the Louvre is that it holds the title of being the most visited museum in the world.
This museum amasses over nine million visitors annually due to its vast array of artworks, including the world-renowned Mona Lisa.
Along with its fantastic collection, the Louvre itself is a work of art. The glass pyramid design of the museum is a must-see photo-op!
LANDMARK 47
A medieval cathedral in gothic style surrounded by greenery
The Notre Dame Cathedral was the main setting for The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, France
Visit website Get directions
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic-style cathedral located in central Paris. The cathedral is known globally for its incredible architecture. It's also recognizable as the home of Quasimodo in the fictional book and movie The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Constructed between the 12th and 14th centuries, the cathedral has been an important religious building in Paris ever since. Many still visit for Mass and to admire the building's interior and exterior.
LANDMARK 48
Moulin Rouge, Paris, France
Get directions
Moulin Rouge is one of Europe's most interesting landmarks. This Parisian bar is the world's most famous cabaret and has been in the French capital since the early 1900s.
Moulin Rouge features an iconic red facade with windmills, reminiscent of the windmills seen in Montmartre in the 16h century. You can view the landmark outside or spend the evening inside watching a memorable show!
LANDMARK 49
A white cathedral building with a square and tourists in front of it on a clear day
Construction of Duomo di Milano began in 1386 and was completed in 1965
Milan Cathedral, Milan, Italy
Visit website Get directions
Duomo di Milano is a renowned Gothic-style cathedral located in Milan, Italy. Despite the construction of this religious building beginning in 1386, it was not completed until 1965. Today, it is one of the largest churches in the world and notably features over 3,500 statues and gargoyles altogether.
LANDMARK 50
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
Visit website Get directions
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is another of the most well-known global landmarks because of its namesake flaw. The Pisa Tower leans due to an uneven settling of the foundation and ground, comprising a mixture of clay, fine sand, and shells.
Along with admiring the unique tower, visitors can go up a twin spiral staircase inside to get great views of Pisa, Italy. Pisa Tower is in Piazza Dei Miracoli, which also features the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
LANDMARK 51
Orange and green tower surrounded by Gothic buildings and a winged lion atop a column
The world-renowned St. Mark's Square houses the equally famous St. Mark's Basilica
St. Mark's Square, Venice, Italy
Get directions
Venice is full of world-class landmarks, and St. Mark's Square is one of the best-known. Called Piazza San Marco in Italian, the vast square notably houses St. Mark's Basilica. When visiting, you'll also discover many cafes around the square that serve fresh Italian coffee and delicious desserts.
LANDMARK 52
A marble bridge over a canal surrounded by colourful buildings and boats
The Rialto Bridge, constructed in 1588, is the oldest bridge across the Venice Canal
Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy
Get directions
Another of the best landmarks in the world is the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy. Constructed in 1588, this iconic attraction is the oldest of the four bridges across the Venice Canal. A stop at this Italian landmark has to be on your Venice itinerary!
LANDMARK 53
The Globetrotting DetectiveLooking down into a massive round crater hole inside a mountaintop
The main crater of Mount Vesuvius in Italy
Mount Vesuvius, Ottaviano, Italy
Get directions
Mount Vesuvius in Naples is one of three active volcanoes in Italy. It was notably the cause of a deadly volcanic eruption in 79 AD, which destroyed Pompeii and Herculaneum, and killed most residents.
Today, it's dormant, but there's a possibility it could erupt. Despite these dangers, Vesuvius is one of Italy's most visited tourist attractions.
The most popular thing to do when visiting is to hike the mountain. From Mount Vesuvius National Park, you can walk to the main crater, which reaches 1,281 metres.
LANDMARK 54
Ruins of an ancient Roman city with a view of a volcano at the back
The eruption of Mount Vesuvius destroyed and preserved the ancient city of Pompeii
Pompeii, Naples, Italy
Get directions
Pompeii in Italy is one of the most fascinating historical landmarks around the world. It was a thriving city that, as mentioned, was unfortunately destroyed in 79 A.D. when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Interestingly, pyroclastic flows perfectly preserved the town and its doomed residents in a plaster cast-like material.
Today, tourists can visit the city's ruins and learn more about its past. You can even view the preserved bodies of some of those that lived there.
LANDMARK 55
Stairway surrounded by brightly-coloured buildings leading to an obelisk and a church
The famous Spanish Steps were designed by Francesco de Sanctis
Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy
Get directions
The Spanish Steps are found in central Rome and were designed by Francesco de Sanctis and Alessandro Specchi. The renowned European attraction comprises over 130 Roman Baroque stairs and has been in the city since 1725.
Climbing the steps and taking lots of pictures is a must, but don't sit on the stairs of this famous Rome landmark as you could be fined!
LANDMARK 56
Strictly RomeA black and grey cat sitting on ancient Roman ruins with buildings and grass around
Cats hanging out on Roman ruins at the Cat Sanctuary in Rome
Largo di Torre Argentina, Rome, Italy
Visit website Get directions
There are 4,000 cat colonies in Rome, and a local decree protects the cats in Rome, stating they must have safe spaces, food, and veterinary care.
To see some of these felines, visit Rome's famous cat sanctuary, Largo di Torre Argentina. You can see the cats sleeping and playing in the ruins during a visit. You can also purchase souvenirs inside the sanctuary building, with all profits supporting local cats.
LANDMARK 57
The exterior of an ancient amphitheatre against a blue sky
The Colosseum hosted chariot races, gladiator fights, and other events
Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Get directions
There are an array of famous landmarks in Italy, with the most well-known being the Colosseum in Rome. Completed in 80 A.D., the Colosseum was initially used for events, including chariot racing and gladiator fights. Today, you can explore the well-preserved structure and may spot a cute resident cat!
LANDMARK 58
A Baroque fountain with the façade of a palace as its backdrop
The world-famous Trevi Fountain is the largest fountain in Rome
Trevi Fountain, Rome, Italy
Visit website Get directions
The Trevi Fountain is another incredible landmark found in Rome. This Baroque-style fountain was designed by Nicola Salvi in the 1700s and features Roman statues in front of a stately palace-style building.
Standing 49.15 metres wide and 26.3 metres high, the fountain is the largest in Rome and one of the world's most renowned fountains. If in Rome, viewing the beautiful design surrounded by flowing water is an absolute must!
LANDMARK 59
An Egyptian obelisk and a Renaissance-style church against a clear blue sky
Built in the 1600s, St Peter's Basilica is an important historic landmark in Italy
St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, Italy
Get directions
Vatican City is a unique place in itself. But the must-see landmark in this small Roman Catholic city is St. Peter's Basilica. This site is significant to Catholics, and the current building has been in Italy since the 1600s. The official residence of the Pope is also located.
LANDMARK 60
Sistine Chapel, Vatican City, Italy
Visit website Get directions
Located inside Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel is one of the world's most outstanding pieces of architecture. The chapel was built in the late 1400s by Giovanni di Dolci at the request of Pope Sixtus IV.
The Sistine Chapel's incredible painted ceiling is additionally one of Michelangelo's most notable works. It is a must on your Rome itinerary!
LANDMARK 61
A World in ReachA circle of large tall stones surrounded by grass and blue sky
Stonehenge is one of the most famous landmarks around the world
Stonehenge, Salisbury, England
Visit website Get directions
Stonehenge is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in England. Many questions surround Stonehenge's existence. Some think it was a burial ground, while others say it acted as an astronomical calendar.
If you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, don't miss the visitor centre along with seeing the monument. The centre houses exhibits detailing the history and function of Stonehenge and what life was like during its construction in around 3,000 BC.
LANDMARK 62
Big Ben, London, England
Visit website Get directions
When you think of London in England, a famous British landmark that springs to mind is Big Ben. The clock tower is over 316 feet tall, making it one of the world's biggest striking and chiming clocks.
An interesting fact is that Big Ben was renamed Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to mark the Queen of England's Diamond Jubilee. However, the name does not have the same ring to it, and everyone will always think of England's striking clock tower as Big Ben! If travelling in Europe, Big Ben is a must-visit!
LANDMARK 63
fazon1/Depositphotos.comGarden and a monument in front of a neoclassical palace on a clear day
Buckingham Palace has been home to the royal family since 1837
Buckingham Palace, London, England
Visit website Get directions
Buckingham Palace is one of the most well-known iconic buildings around the world and a must-visit when in London for a few days. Constructed in the 1700s, the building has been the primary residence of the Kings and Queens of England since 1837.
The neoclassical palace features 775 rooms and many regal accents, such as a Grand Staircase made entirely of bronze. The palace also houses renowned artworks and has hosted numerous heads of state.
LANDMARK 64
View of a Gothic palace and clock tower from across a river
The Palace of Westminster was rebuilt in the 1800s because of a fire
Palace of Westminster, London, England
Visit website Get directions
The Palace of Westminster, also known as The Houses of Parliament, is where England's members of parliament and the Prime Minister meet. The building was constructed in 1016, although it was rebuilt in the mid-1800s.
This London landmark has been an important political building and a loved attraction in London for centuries. Visitors can explore parts of the Palace of Westminster to learn more about English political history and the history of the building itself.
LANDMARK 65
mitakag/Depositphotos.comA huge Ferris wheel and a river with a cityscape against a clear sky in the back
Standing 135 feet tall, the London Eye offers 360-degree views of the city
The London Eye, London, England
Visit website Get directions
Another must-see landmark in the United Kingdom's capital, London, is the London Eye. This large observation wheel has been in the city since 1999 and offers the most breathtaking view of London. The wheel stands at 135-metres tall and remains an iconic structure in the city skyline.
LANDMARK 66
s4visuals/Depositphotos.comA modern skyscraper and buildings by a river with a bridge with 2 towers on the right
Standing 1,016 feet tall, The Shard is a 72-storey skyscraper designed by Renzo Piano
The Shard, London, England
Visit website Get directions
You can find numerous world-renowned landmarks in London, England. One of the more modern ones is The Shard. Designed by architect Renzo Piano, the 72-storey pointed skyscraper stands 1,016 feet tall. You can go to the top of the Shard to take in the view and dine at multiple restaurants.
LANDMARK 67
A historic bridge with two tall towers crossing a river on a nice day
Tower Bridge opened in London in 1894
Tower Bridge, London, England
Visit website Get directions
Tower Bridge has sat across the River Thames for over 120 years, opening in 1894. The Grade I listed suspension bridge is one of London's most stunning pieces of architecture and arguably the city's most beautiful bridge.
Visitors can walk across the bridge for free and admire views down the Thames. There's also a glass floor, allowing you to look down on the river and road below.
LANDMARK 68
richie0703/Depositphotos.comA stone path leading to the entrance of a Gothic abbey with ornate decorations
Westminster Abbey, an iconic landmark, is the site of Royal coronations
Westminster Abbey, London, England
Visit website Get directions
Westminster Abbey is a Gothic-style abbey located in London, United Kingdom. This landmark is extremely notable as it's the location of Royal coronations.
Numerous Kings and Queens are also buried within the abbey grounds. You can appreciate the architecture and see many Royal artifacts if you visit. Make sure to include the Abbey on your London bucket list!
LANDMARK 69
Get Lost Travel BlogA horseshoe-shaped cove surrounded by green grass and trees and blue sky from below
Malham Cove in Yorkshire Dales National Park in the UK
Malham Cove, Malham, England
Visit website Get directions
While Yorkshire is home to many iconic landmarks, you don't get anything more dramatic than the spectacular Malham Cove. This 260-foot-high cove is shaped like a horseshoe and is a recognizable landmark of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.
Malham is an especially popular destination for walkers due to its natural beauty and the many incredible sights that surround it. Although the Cove is crowded with tourists year-round, June or September are the least busy months to visit.
LANDMARK 70
Walk a While with MeA pathway lined with overarching red gates with Japanese writing on them
Fushimi Inari Taisha is a famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan
Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto, Japan
Get directions
There are many incredible landmarks in Asia, from Angkor Wat to Bangkok's Grand Palace. But some of the most iconic landmarks are in Kyoto, Japan.
Top Kyoto attractions include the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. Another must-visit Kyoto sight on your Southeast Asia travel itinerary is the Fushimi Inari Shrine.
Well-known for its vivid red torii gates, the Fushimi Inari Taisha is dedicated to the god of rice. It's one of Japan's most popular places to visit and take photos.
LANDMARK 71
JaplaneaseTall skinny bamboo tree trunks from below, lining a winding path in a forest
The winding Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto, Japan
Get directions
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of the most famous sights in Kyoto. Visitors can enjoy the idyllic image of towering trees lining a peaceful path.
But don't just look - also listen! The bamboo clacking together is one of the most iconic sounds in Japan and is just one example of the many small things you shouldn't miss on your Japan trip.
Other notable sites nearby include the Sagano Romance Train, Tenryu-Ji, and Mikami Shrine, Japan's only shrine to hair.
LANDMARK 72
A stone chamber under a saddle-shaped monument with a Japanese flag on its left
The stone chamber contains the names of the atomic bomb blast victims
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima, Japan
Get directions
The moving and historical Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park memorializes those killed and affected by the nuclear attack on Hiroshima. The memorial park is found in the city of Hiroshima in Japan. Visiting the memorial is a great way to reflect and learn more about this tragic event.
LANDMARK 73
Stone bridge over a moat, in front of an elevated palace surrounded by greenery
Tokyo Imperial Palace, a royal residence, also features gardens and a museum
Imperial Palace, Tokyo, Japan
Visit website Get directions
Japan's Imperial Palace, located in Tokyo, is the residence of the Imperial Family. This regal building also features 1.15 square kilometres of amazing manicured gardens. The palace also has a museum that's open to the public. A trip to this royal residence is a must when in Tokyo!
LANDMARK 74
leungchopan/Depositphotos.comA tall orange and white tower on the right of a city skyline, on a clear blue day
The Tokyo Tower is a prominent landmark in the capital's skyline
Tokyo Tower, Tokyo, Japan
Visit website Get directions
Tokyo Tower is an iconic communications tower that sits in the Minato district. The tower is the second-tallest structure in Japan, reaching 332.9 metres.
Constructed in 1958, the tower was built as a symbol of post-war recovery, and today, visitors can travel up the tower to an observation deck that offers fantastic views.
LANDMARK 75
Torsakarin/Depositphotos.comRed pagoda and cherry blossoms in the foreground of a snow-capped mountain
The picturesque Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Mount Fuji, Shizuoka, Japan
Get directions
Mount Fuji is one of the many naturally occurring world-famous landmarks. This mountain is a volcano with a peak of 3,776 metres.
Along with being a sight to see, Mount Fuji is also one of Japan's three sacred mountains. Due to this, many visit this Japanese landmark to connect spiritually with nature.
If you're adventurous, you can even climb Mount Fuji and enjoy the incredible surrounding views up high.
LANDMARK 76
My Little World of TravellingA pointy mountain top overlooking water, houses, and the sky
The scenic Gibraltar Nature Reserve from above
Gibraltar Nature Reserve, Gibraltar
Get directions
Gibraltar Nature Reserve is one of the most famous places in the world, and it must be on your travel bucket list! This protected nature reserve covers over 40% of Gibraltar's land area and features outstanding flora and fauna.
The reserve is well-known for its macaques, the only wild monkeys in Europe. In addition, it features breathtaking panoramic views.
You'll see three countries from the park, Spain, Gibraltar, and Morocco. To access Gibraltar Nature Reserve, take the cable car from Alameda Gardens.
LANDMARK 77
Aerial view of a double-deck steel bridge and boats on the winding river under it
Spanning across River Douro, the Dom Luis Bridge connects Porto to Vila Nova de Gaia
Dom Luis Bridge, Porto, Portugal
Get directions
Spanning across the River Douro, the Dom Luis Bridge is a significant landmark in Portugal. At the time of construction in 1880, the bridge was one of the longest metal bridges in the world. Today, the Dom Luis Bridge is a famous sight in Porto, connecting the city to Vila Nova de Gaia.
LANDMARK 78
AlexGukBO/Depositphotos.comAerial shot of a botanical garden adjacent to a reservoir
Gardens by the Bay features waterfront gardens with art installations
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore, Singapore
Visit website Get directions
Found in central Singapore, Gardens by the Bay is a stunning collection of gardens covering 101 hectares. These gardens combine beautiful horticultural designs with incredible art pieces.
Visitors liken exploring the gardens to being in a magical kingdom with a range of vibrant flora, unique water features, and illuminated art installations.
A visit to Gardens by the Bay when in Singapore for a few days is the perfect way to unwind and take some one-of-a-kind pictures.
LANDMARK 79
richie0703/Depositphotos.comA fish statue with a lion head spraying water into a harbour with skyscrapers behind
The Merlion was constructed in the 1970s and moved to Singapore's CBD in 2002
Merlion, Singapore, Singapore
Visit website Get directions
The Merlion is an iconic statue and fountain on the waterfront in Singapore's central business district. The sculpture features a lion's head and a fish or mermaid-style body.
This famous landmark of the world was initially built in the 1970s and sat on the Singapore River. It was moved to the CBD in 2002 and restored in 2009 after being struck by lightning.
LANDMARK 80
Top view of a crowded street lined with trees on both sides in the middle of a city
The Placa de Catalunya and Christopher Columbus monuments can be found along La Ramba
La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain
Get directions
La Rambla is a major street in Barcelona, Spain. This pedestrian street is incredibly well-known and is a must-visit location when visiting this Spanish city.
The bustling street features shops, markets, vibrant cafes, and street performers. The Placa de Catalunya and Christopher Columbus monuments also sit on the 1.2-kilometre street.
LANDMARK 81
deb-37/Depositphotos.comA Gothic-style basilica surrounded by trees on a partly cloudy day
Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi designed La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
Visit website Get directions
La Sagrada Familia is a basilica in Barcelona designed by Antoni Gaudi. Interestingly, the basilica's construction has never been completed, but it should be by 2026.
The basilica is Gothic in style and features tall spires and ornate carvings. Inside, you'll find stained glass, religious statues, and high ceilings.
As one of the most famous landmarks in Spain, it's a no-brainer that you must include it on your Barcelona itinerary!
LANDMARK 82
DestguidesA grand fortified castle on a hill filled with green treens, on a nice day
The renowned Alhambra was constructed for the Nasrid Dynasty
The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
Visit website Get directions
The Alhambra is another landmark in Spain that is known worldwide. It is a must on any Granada itinerary! Located in Granada, the Alhambra is a palace and fortress that was constructed for the Nasrid Dynasty in 1238. Today, you can explore the royal building and learn more about its rich past.
LANDMARK 83
borja_laria/Depositphotos.comA modern building made of titanium, glass, and limestone by a river
One of four in the world, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao was designed by Frank Gehry
Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain
Visit website Get directions
There are only four Guggenheim Museums in the world, and the location in Bilbao, Spain, is one of the most spectacular. This art museum houses an array of works by famous artists, including Rothko and Kandinsky. The building's exterior is also stunning and was designed by the architect Frank Gehry.
LANDMARK 84
Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Visit website Get directions
Niagara Falls is one of the seven natural wonders and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. This North American landmark sits between Ontario and New York.
Therefore, the falls are an American and a Canadian landmark, and you can admire these stunning falls from Canada or the United States.
While it's an incredible destination in all seasons, Niagara Falls becomes a magical place during the winter when gigantic icicles frame the falls, and snow covers the rocks at the base.
LANDMARK 85
Yosef_Er/Depositphotos.comA skyscraper with other tall buildings around, in an urban skyline, behind water
The CN Tower rises 553 metres tall and offers amazing views of Toronto
CN Tower, Toronto, Canada
Visit website Get directions
Toronto's CN Tower is one of the Canadian city's most well-known landmarks. The 553-metre-tall tower houses an observation deck offering panoramic city views.
When visiting Toronto, you can admire the Toronto skyline from the observation deck or dine at the CN Tower restaurant. Thrill-seekers can also complete the exciting Edgewalk that takes you around the exterior of the observation deck.
LANDMARK 86
Alpine trees and snow-capped mountains at the back of a turquoise lake
Lake Louise is a picturesque attraction known for its turquoise water
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Visit website Get directions
Banff National Park in Alberta is one of Canada's most stunning outdoor destinations. This park, with snow-capped mountains and breathtaking crystal blue lakes, is world-renowned, too. A notable attraction is Lake Louise; you can swim, hike, appreciate spectacular views, and more when visiting!
LANDMARK 87
Red and white lighthouse on a rocky cove overlooking the blue ocean
Peggy's Lighthouse has been an iconic landmark since its first use in 1915
Peggy's Point Lighthouse, Nova Scotia, Canada
Visit website Get directions
Located in the charming Canadian province of Nova Scotia, Peggy's Point Lighthouse is located in the coastal Peggy's Cove. The lighthouse was first used in 1915 and has been a popular landmark in Canada ever since. The lighthouse is designed in a classic East Coast style with red and white colouring.
LANDMARK 88
A white cathedral with a green dome surrounded by landscaped gardens
A National Historic Site, Saint Joseph's Oratory is the largest church in Canada
Saint Joseph's Oratory, Montreal, Canada
Visit website Get directions
Another of the world's interesting landmarks found in Canada is Saint Joseph's Oratory. Located in Montreal, Quebec, the oratory is a Roman Catholic minor basilica.
Opened in 1904, Saint Joseph's Oratory is notable as Canada's largest church. The beautifully designed building is also a National Historic Site of Canada.
LANDMARK 89
Giant's Causeway, Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Visit website Get directions
The rugged Causeway Coast of Northern Ireland is a notable landscape. One of the best landmarks along the coast is Giant's Causeway.
Legend has it that two rival giants, Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill and Scottish giant Benandonner, formed the Giant's Causeway during a fight! Interestingly, there is an identical causeway in Scotland.
Today, you can walk along the cliff edge before walking down to view Giant's Causeway. For the best views, make sure you hike along the red route.
LANDMARK 90
Massive ancient building ruins on top of a hill with many green trees around
Among the ruins in Athens, the Parthenon is the most popular
Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Get directions
The Acropolis is an ancient Greek citadel in the hills above Athens, Greece. There are multiple significant ruins within the citadel complex, with the Parthenon being the most famous Athens landmark.
It's believed that this city was built around the fifth century BC at the request of Greek statesman Pericles. Today, tourists can explore the ruins, learn more about the area's history, and take memorable photographs.
LANDMARK 91
Tulum Archaeological Zone, Tulum, Mexico
Get directions
The Tulum Archaeological Zone in Quintana Roo, Mexico, is about two hours from Cancun and is one of the most famous landmarks in the world for a good reason! With over 800 years of history, Tulum is a must-visit place while in this area of Mexico.
This ancient city is steeped in history and was the only Mayan city built along the coastline. It was originally a seaport, trading in jade and turquoise. The best way to explore this landmark near Cancun is by taking a guided tour.
LANDMARK 92
An ancient stone pyramid with trees and a cloudy sky in the background
The prominent El Castillo is a temple to the god Kukulcan
Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico
Get directions
Mexico is home to many world-famous landmarks, and Chichen Itza, a complex of Mayan ruins, is one of the most interesting. The Mayan city was constructed around 600 AD, with residents inhabiting the area until the 1200s.
A step pyramid called El Castillo is the most recognizable ruin. This Mexican landmark was a temple to the god Kukulcan. After viewing the famous El Castillo, you can discover other ruins, plus Mayan carvings and monuments.
LANDMARK 93
A massive Gothic cathedral surrounded by greenery against a blue sky
Built in 1813, Catedral Metropolitana is a must-see in Mexico City
Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City, Mexico
Get directions
Catedral Metropolitana in Mexico City, Mexico, is another of the numerous iconic landmarks around the world. The Roman Catholic cathedral was completed in 1813 and is designed in a striking Gothic Style.
Both the interior and exterior of the Catedral Metropolitana de la Ciudad de México feature ornate details, and seeing this landmark is an absolute must.
LANDMARK 94
Panoramic view of numerous tree-laden limestone islands and several boats on a sea
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is comprised of around 1,600 islands
Ha Long Bay, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam
Get directions
Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous landmarks in Vietnam. The UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises approximately 1,600 limestone islands surrounded by emerald water. Ha Long Bay also offers visitors various activities to try, from hiking to snorkelling and scuba diving.
LANDMARK 95
Neo-classical monument with columns and a chariot sculpture on top
Brandenburg Gate is the most famous landmark in Berlin
Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, Germany
Visit website Get directions
The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany, is the country's most recognizable landmark. It's also one of the most famous world landmarks and a must on any Berlin itinerary. This neoclassical bridge is 26 metres tall and was constructed in 1788.
Brandenburg Gate sits on what was the division between East and West Germany but today symbolizes peace and unity. It's visited by millions of tourists annually and is at the centre of the world's largest New Year's Eve party!
LANDMARK 96
Berlin Wall Memorial, Berlin, Germany
Visit website Get directions
One of the most important landmarks in the world is the Berlin Wall Memorial, located in Berlin, Germany. The iconic memorial marks where the Berlin Wall, which separated East and West Germany, was torn down. The memorial commemorates those that died trying to cross the wall when Berlin was divided after WWII.
LANDMARK 97
pandionhiatus3/Depositphotos.comA hilltop castle surrounded by greenery, with a lake and mountains in the background
Neuschwanstein Castle, a Romanesque palace, was built for King Ludwig II of Bavaria
Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany
Visit website Get directions
Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century palace located in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The castle was originally built for King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
However, construction was completed after his death, so the castle was opened to the public instead. The landmark is designed in a Romanesque Revival style and features stunning grounds.
LANDMARK 98
View from below of an enormous bronze statue of Buddha sitting on a lotus
Also known as the Big Buddha, the Tian Tan Buddha statue stands 34 feet tall
Tian Tan Buddha, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Visit website Get directions
A famous attraction in Hong Kong is the Tian Tan Buddha, also known as Big Buddha. The statue of Buddha is 34 metres tall and can be reached by climbing just over 265 steps. At the top, you can also visit a museum with Buddhist artifacts. A trip to Tian Tan has to be on your Hong Kong itinerary!
LANDMARK 99
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Visit website Get directions
Located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, Angkor Wat is a significant religious monument and highly recognizable landmark in Asia.
Constructed in the 12 century, it was previously the centre of the Khmer Kingdom. Today, the site has immense cultural and spiritual significance and is a must on any Siem Reap itinerary!
Plan to spend two days exploring this 400-square-kilometre UNESCO World Heritage Site. A guided tour of Angkor is a perfect option if you want a more in-depth experience.
LANDMARK 100
May Cause WanderlustAncient Inca ruins on a green mountaintop, surrounded by clouds from above
Inca ruins on Machu Picchu from above
Machu Picchu, Andes Mountains, Peru
Visit website Get directions
As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and one of the most famous landmarks in Peru, Machu Picchu is a true marvel. This 600-year-old citadel perches within the Peruvian Andes. Although local people knew of its location for centuries, it was not known to the world until 1911.
To get to Machu Picchu, follow the Inca Trail, a four-day hike through the mountains that takes you past incredible Inca ruins on the way to Machu Picchu. Seeing these ancient ruins is something you'll remember forever!
LANDMARK 101
Cuppa to Copa TravelsA tall mountain peak surrounded by greenery, water, the sky and a viewing platform
The top of Sugarloaf Mountain in Rio, Brazil
Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Get directions
Sugarloaf Mountain, or Pão de Açúcar, in Rio de Janeiro, juts out from the coast, looming tall over Praia Vermelha. The mountain is an iconic part of Rio de Janeiro's cityscape, and the views from the top are epic, too.
Going up to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain at sunset is one of the best things to do in Rio. It truly gives you an understanding of how beautiful this city is!
LANDMARK 102
Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Get directions
Christ the Redeemer statue needs no introduction. This iconic global landmark in Brazil is one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and a popular tourist attraction.
It is a 125-feet symbol of peace that sits atop Rio de Janeiro's Corcovado Mountain. Once you reach the summit, stand in front of the statue and take in the breathtaking views.
Also, plan your trip early in the day to avoid the heat and crowds, and pack a good camera; you'll want to remember your visit forever!
LANDMARK 103
View from the top of an oceanside city with a white beach and mountains in the back
The world-renowned Copacabana Beach is the perfect place to relax and have fun
Copacabana Beach, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Get directions
A highly famous place in Brazil is Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. The renowned beach features soft white sand, warm waters, and a fun atmosphere.
At the beach, you can swim, play beach games like volleyball, or relax under the sun with a caipirinha! Copacabana Beach has to be on your Rio de Janeiro itinerary!
LANDMARK 104
diegograndi/Depositphotos.comSteps of a staircase decorated with a mosaic of colourful tiles
Various tiles from all over the world were used to decorate Escaderia Selaron
Selaron Steps, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Get directions
Located in the Santa Teresa neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Escadaria Selarón is a South American landmark that's known worldwide.
The colourful staircase features titles sourced from around the globe. Escalera de Selarón has also been seen in numerous movies and music videos.
LANDMARK 105
Aerial view of a ferry on an area where a tea-coloured river meets a pale brown river
The Meeting of the Waters is a world-famous, two-tone river in Brazil
The Meeting of the Waters, Manaus, Brazil
Get directions
Another of the multiple famous locations in Brazil is the Meeting of the Waters in Manaus. This natural phenomenon sees the dark waters of the Rio Negro flow next to the sandy waters of the Rio Solimões. The rivers don't mix but instead flow side by side, making for a unique two-tone river.
LANDMARK 106
Aerial view of a river winding through a lush tropical rainforest
The Amazon Rainforest is well-known for its biodiversity
Amazon Rainforest, Amazonas, Brazil
Get directions
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most important landmarks in the world. The area is home to many different plant and animal species and covers approximately 2.72 million square miles.
This wildlife accounts for over 10% of the world's known species. In addition, around 50% of all creatures and plants on Earth live in the Amazon!
LANDMARK 107
Sculptures and ornately decorated mausoleums under a partly cloudy sky
Cementerio de la Recoleta is the final resting place of many notable Argentinians
Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Visit website Get directions
Known as one of the most-visited cemeteries in the world, Cementerio de la Recoleta is an iconic location in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
This "City of the Dead" features graves of notable people, including Eva Peron and a granddaughter of Napoleon Bonaparte. While slightly eerie, visiting the cemetery must be on your Buenos Aires itinerary!
LANDMARK 108
Iguazu Falls, Misiones Province, Argentina
Get directions
Located on the border between Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is a stunning natural landmark. Iguazu Falls comprise over 270 individual waterfalls that combine to create an extensive feature. The falls are another of the famous landmarks that you must see at least once!
LANDMARK 109
A broken old rusty car near an abandoned dilapidated house
Chornobyl, the site of a nuclear disaster, has been abandoned since 1986
Chornobyl, Ukraine
Get directions
Chornobyl is the site of a devastating nuclear accident that's known around the world. The city of Chornobyl has been abandoned since the disaster in 1986 and resembles an eerie ghost town.
Despite being closed to the public for decades, you can now visit the renowned area. If visiting, you'll get to explore this town that has been untouched for over 30 years.
LANDMARK 110
Taipei 101, Taipei, Taiwan
Visit website Get directions
Taipei 101 was the world's tallest building from 2004-2009 but was overtaken by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. It doesn't matter, though; it's still an impressive building standing 1,667 feet high in Taipei, Taiwan.
This global landmark has 101 floors and is home to one of the world's largest wind dampers. It's 18 feet long and helps the structure withstand typhoons and earthquakes.
If you love amazing views, Taipei 101 has to be on your Taiwan bucket list. From the tower's observation deck, you can see across the city.
LANDMARK 111
A rainbow near waterfalls rushing down green-covered rocky cliffs
Victoria Falls sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Zambia
Visit website Get directions
Victoria Falls is another of many iconic landmarks around the world and famous landmarks in Africa. The waterfall is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and is one of the largest waterfalls in the world.
The spectacular falls stand 355 feet tall and are 5,604 feet wide. Those that visit can take in the breathtaking falls and surrounding lush jungle.
LANDMARK 112
Stone temple with three levels built into the foot of a cliff against a clear sky
Among the tombs in the Valley of the Kings is Queen Hatshepsut's grave
The Valley of Kings, Luxor, Egypt
Get directions
One of the oldest landmarks in the world to visit is the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt. The landmark was constructed between 1539 BC and 1075 BC.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the burial place of numerous Egyptian Pharaohs. You can see over 60 tombs here, including the resting place of Tutankhamun.
LANDMARK 113
Ancient pyramids in a desert with blue sky and clouds in the background
The Pyramids of Giza are the oldest among the Wonders of the World
Pyramids of Giza, Cairo, Egypt
Get directions
The Pyramids of Giza, in greater Cairo, Egypt, are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and one of the top things to see in Cairo. The pyramids were constructed in 2600 BC as the final resting place of pharaoh Khufu and his queen.
Today, the pyramids stand almost entirely intact, making them one of few landmarks this old that's not in ruins. Another famous Egyptian landmark, The Great Sphinx of Giza, is located by the pyramids too.
LANDMARK 114
River in a wildlife park with an elephant on one side and herds of gnus on the other
Serengeti National Park is well-known for the annual Great Wildebeest Migration
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Get directions
Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is one of the world's most incredible national parks. Covering 30,000 square kilometres, the park is home to a range of protected animals.
If in the Serengeti on an eco-safari, you may spot lions, giraffes, gazelle, and many others. The Serengeti is also the location of the impressive Great Wildebeest Migration.
LANDMARK 115
Snow-capped mountain in the background of a grassy plain with trees
Rising to 19,340 feet, Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's tallest mountain
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Get directions
Mount Kilimanjaro is found in Tanzania next to the Kenyan border and is the tallest mountain in Africa. The stunning natural landmark is 19,340 feet tall and is one of the Seven Summits, the world's seven highest mountains. You can see the mountain and attempt to climb it by visiting Mount Kilimanjaro National Park.
LANDMARK 116
photobac/Depositphotos.comLooking up at a skyscraper surrounded by buildings and palm trees
The world's tallest building is Dubai's Burj Khalifa at 828 metres tall
Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
Visit website Get directions
Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, is the world's tallest building. The building is 828 metres above the ground, and the observation deck was constructed in 2010.
If visiting, you can head up to the 124th floor to the observation deck, which offers panoramic views. You can also venture to the world's highest lounge on the 154th floor. A visit to this Dubai landmark is an absolute must, and offers the most amazing views in the city.
LANDMARK 117
Suvarna AroraA grand white mosque with a pinkish glow against a blue sky
The magical Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Visit website Get directions
Sheikh Zayed Mosque, or the Grand Mosque, is a magnificent mosque in Abu Dhabi. This global landmark must be on any Abu Dhabi itinerary!
This Abu Dhabi landmark was built to honour the first ruler of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Today, it's the largest mosque in UAE and the third-largest in the world.
When visiting the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, you must follow basic mosque etiquette, including complying with dressing standards.
LANDMARK 118
Tug boats and a large black and white cruise ship passing a canal under a bridge
Constructed in 1914, the Panama Canal is a major shipping route
Panama Canal, Panama City, Panama
Get directions
The Panama Canal is a major shipping route. Constructed in 1914, the 50-mile-long waterway is still viewed by millions of tourists annually.
Along with viewing the canal and watching shipping containers come and go, you'll find many cafes and bars around the canal banks.
LANDMARK 119
Travel Around IrelandRocky cliffs with grass and flowers on top along water
The Cliffs of Moher is one of Ireland's most-visited landmarks
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland
Visit website Get directions
One of the most famous landmarks in the world is the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. Located on the west coast in County Clare, visiting the cliffs is one of the best things to do in Ireland.
This natural landmark of Ireland has attracted visitors for decades. The cliffs rise from the Atlantic Ocean, reaching a height of 214 metres and running for eight kilometres. The attraction is best visited early in the morning or just before sunset.
LANDMARK 120
Waves crashing on a white beach with a view of a flat-topped mountain in the back
Rising 1,086 metres above sea level, Table Mountain is known for its unique flat top
Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa
Get directions
Cape Town's Table Mountain is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in South Africa and the world. The mountain features a unique flat top and is 1,086 metres above sea level. You can access Table Mountain via cable car or hiking when visiting Cape Town.
LANDMARK 121
Petra, Wadi Musa, Jordan
Get directions
Petra is an archaeological site in the deserts of Jordan. This landmark is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and is an attraction on many people's travel bucket lists.
Often called The Rose City, Petra features an array of pink sandstone buildings carved directly into the surrounding hillside. Famous ruins include the Treasury, the Royal Tombs, and the Monastery.
LANDMARK 122
PlacesofJumaLooking down onto a picturesque village full of houses, rocks and clear blue water
The stunning landscape surrounding Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik City Walls, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Visit website Get directions
The Dubrovnik City Walls is undoubtedly one of the most imposing sights in Europe. The site was built in the 12th century, but additions were made until the 17th century.
Today, you can walk around the city walls and enjoy the most beautiful scenery on the coast of the Adriatic Sea! The walk along the wall stretches for about two kilometres. Although the entrance to this famous Croatian landmark is not cheap (it's more than 30 euros), it is well worth it!
LANDMARK 123
Globetrotting SuThe grand white Taj Mahal with two tall towers on either side, on a blue day
The iconic Taj Mahal, one of the most famous landmarks in the world
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Get directions
As one of the most famous landmarks of the world, the Taj Mahal in India welcomes seven to eight million visitors annually. This famous Indian landmark was built by Shah Jahan to commemorate the death of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
When visiting this awe-inspiring destination, don't forget to take pictures at the many beautiful Taj Mahal photo spots! Iconic images to snap include the Kau Ban Mosque and the sunset from Mehtab Bagh.
LANDMARK 124
Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Visit website Get directions
The magnificent Petronas Twin Towers are some of the most famous skyscrapers in the world. Standing at 452-metres tall, they are also the tallest twin towers on earth.
The Petronas Twin Towers stand in bustling Kuala Lumpur, and they're famous for their iconic architecture, resembling patterns from handicrafts in Malaysia.
The towers are a must-see attraction on any Kuala Lumpur itinerary! When visiting, you can go to the sky bridge (which hangs between the two buildings at 170-metres above ground) and the viewing deck on the 86th floor.
LANDMARK 125
Bolet WorldwideA massive parliament building with a statue and white flowers in front
The colossal Hungarian Parliament Building from behind flowers
Hungarian Parliament Building, Budapest, Hungary
Get directions
The Budapest Parliament is the biggest building in Hungary, just under 120 years old. As one of the best places to visit in Budapest and the most famous landmark in the city, this total gem is a must-visit when in Budapest for a few days.
The details on the building's exterior, including its 365 towers, are a sight to see. However, the decorations and details on the inside are even more magnificent!
LANDMARK 126
Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey
Get directions
Constructed in 1609, the Blue Mosque is one of the most well-known landmarks in Turkey. Also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the religious building remains an active mosque, with over four million worshippers and tourists visiting each year. This building is a classic example of Ottoman architecture and is a must-see on your Istanbul itinerary!
LANDMARK 127
Exploring Our WorldA covered bridge with people on it and a pointy tower at the back
The Chapel Bridge and Tower in Lucerne, Switzerland
Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, Switzerland
Visit website Get directions
The Chapel Bridge in the heart of Lucerne is a Swiss National Landmark. Also known as the Kapellbrücke, it crosses the River Reuss and is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe.
A stroll across the Chapel Bridge is a must when you visit Lucerne. Enjoying dinner at a riverside café with incredible Chapel Bridge views is also recommended. This bridge certainly does its part to make Lucerne one of the loveliest Swiss cities.
LANDMARK 128
A fortified castle sitting atop a rocky hill surrounded by greenery
Edinburgh Castle, a UK heritage site, was built in the 11th century
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland
Visit website Get directions
Edinburgh Castle is one of the world's oldest buildings, having been constructed in the 11th century. In addition, humans have occupied the castle since the Iron Age. These days, Edinburgh Castle sees over two million visitors annually and has been named a top UK heritage attraction.
LANDMARK 129
Mount Bromo, East Java, Indonesia
Visit website Get directions
One of the most famous natural world landmarks is Mount Bromo in Indonesia. This active volcano in Eastern Java's Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park offers incredible views to those who hike up it.
The best way to experience Mount Bromo is by hiking from Cemoro Lawang. If you are up for the adventure, visiting Mount Bromo without a tour guide allows you to explore at your own pace. Note that it can get cold closer to sunset, so dress accordingly.
LANDMARK 130
Atomium, Brussels, Belgium
Visit website Get directions
The Atomium is one of Belgium's most well-known landmarks. The structure resembles an atom, hence the name, and was built for the Brussels World's Fair in 1958.
The structure comprises nine spherical observation pods and reaches a height of 335 feet. Visitors can go in the observation pods to take in the beautiful views of the city. Inside, you will also find exhibitions and a restaurant.
In Summary
There are so many incredible places to travel to globally. This list of 130 famous landmarks in the world just scratches the surface of the amazing natural and human-made places to see on Earth.
If you are just starting on your world travel bucket list, these landmarks are some that absolutely should feature on it. Whether you plan to travel in Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, or Australasia, you are guaranteed to have a long list of must-see world landmarks!