Most Visited Tourist Attraction in the World
Ever wonder what makes million of masses flock to the same bit year after yr ? It ’ s not ever simply a pretty photograph ; sometimes it ’ s the sheer scale , the incredible history , or that “ you only come ta regard it ” vibe . These seat be the rockstars of the travel world , drawing crowds for reasons as diverse as the attractions themselves .
From ancient wonder to feat of more modern technology , these are the global hotspots that consistently top the chart . So , if you ’ re looking to tick off some major bucket-list items , or only funny about what all the trouble live about , here ’ s a rundown of the planet ’ s most popular destinations .
50 . Grand Palace , Bangkok , Thailand ( 1.0 million )
If you ’ re in Bangkok , the Grand Palace jumps right to the top of your must-see list . Thai king get lived hither for years , and the place spirit packed with story . Gold spires , colored roof , and intricate artwork catch your heart everywhere . It ’ s not like your average tourist site—it ’ s got a unlike energy , nearly electric .
About a million people occur each year , so expect a lively crowd . You ’ ll motive to dress modestly—shoulders and knee cover . The rules keep matter respectful , since the castle have a lot of ethnic and religious weight .
As you wander , you ’ ll post bright statue , peaceful garden , and ancient hallway . It ’ s easy to miss lead of time , exactly explore and soak up Thai history .
49 . Petra , Ma ’ an , Jordan ( 1.1 million )
Impose Petra is like abuse into a lost world . This legendary spot in Jordan live carve straight into pink stone , draw people from everywhere . No curiosity it ’ s one of the country ’ s liberal attraction . Close to 1.1 million travelers make their means hither each yr . The Treasury and the Monastery stand out as you thread through narrow canyons and winding paths .
It can find like you ’ re stumble onto a secret city . Some corners are peaceful , while others buzz with tourist . If you depict up early or closer to sunset , you ’ ll sidestep the worst bunch and catch the rocks glowing in the gentle light . Wear sturdy shoes—the ground is rough , and thither ’ s plenty to see .
48 . Table Good deal , Cape Town , South Africa ( 1.4 million )
In Cape Town , Table Mountain dominate the skyline . Locals and visitors alike cluster to the line car for what might exist the better horizon in South Africa . Find adventurous ? Hike up—there cost trail for all levels . The sunsets up top are legendary , so don ’ t leave your camera .
The good deal sits in a national park , home to unique plants and the occasional critter . About 1.4 million mass visit every yr . If you love nature , crave adventure , or just desire an epic photo , Table Mountain delivers . Masses seem to find new reasons to come back every time they ’ re in town .
47 . Neuschwanstein Castle , Schwangau , Germany ( 1.5 million )
Neuschwanstein Castle perches on a rugged hill in southern Germany , seem like it bound out of a fairy story . Tall tower and sweeping views of the Alps make it easy to see why crowd flock here . About 1.5 million masses impose each yr . Summer get particularly packed—sometimes thousand in a single day .
You ’ ll need to connect a guided tour ( no thread solo ) , and book ahead online live a lifesaver . Inside , you ’ ll get vibrant room and 19th-century decoration everywhere you look . King Ludwig II built this palace as his ambition home , though he just lived there . However , it ’ s get one of Germany ’ s most famous landmarks .
46 . Duomo , Florence , Italy ( 1.5 million )
Strolling through Florence , you can ’ t miss the Duomo ’ s giant red dome . Formally , it ’ s the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore , flavor in the city center . Inside , stain glass and a massive paint dome overhear your heart . The marble outside—green , pink , and white—really dad in the sunlight . Giotto ’ s bell tower viewpoint correct next door .
The whole cathedral complex includes the Baptistery and Campanile . It ’ s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can mount up for sweeping views of Florence . About 1.5 million people come each year for the art , the history , and those city horizon . It ’ s one of Italy ’ s most iconic spots .
45 . Machu Picchu , Cusco Region , Peru ( 1.5 million )
Machu Picchu ride high in Peru ’ s Andes . Know as the Lost City of the Incas , it dates back to the 1400s and stayed hidden for centuries . Roughly 1.5 million people make the trip each yr . You ’ ll wander among ancient stone walls , temple , and terraces , all surround by steep , green cliff .
Pass it by train or boost the famed Inca Trail . The fog , the sweeping valley , the dramatic views—it ’ sec unreal . Because of the crowds , there be rules to keep the ruins safe . Guides portion story and account , helping you learn why this place signify hence much to Peru .
44 . Christ the Redeemer , Rio de Janeiro , Brazil ( 1.8 million )
In Rio de Janeiro , Christ the Redeemer tower over the city from Corcovado Mountain . The Art Deco statue , designed by Paul Landowski , equal an absolute icon . Up close , the sheer size of Jesus exist something else . People from all over come to hear it .
You can become to the top by train , bus , or boost . If the weather ’ s clear , the view over Rio and the beach exist hard to exhaust . Each year , about 1.8 million people visit . It ’ s a symbol of Brazil and still made the list of the New 7 Wonders of the World .
43 . The Louvre Abu Dhabi , Abu Dhabi , UAE ( 2.0 million )
In Abu Dhabi , the Louvre Abu Dhabi stands out with its futuristic dome and cool spark pattern inside . The museum sits right on the water , so you have some somewhat sweet views . Inside , you ’ ll patch art from all over—ancient statue , modern painting , and everything in between .
There are hands-on display to try , and household seem to enjoy it . About 2 million masses cliff by each year , so you ’ ll hear plenty of unlike speech around you . You put on ’ t take to be an art expert to enjoy yourself . The building alone equal worth seeing , and the whole property feels open and welcoming .
42 . Dome of the Rock , Jerusalem , Israel ( 2.0 million )
In Jerusalem , the Dome of the Rock catch your attention mighty off . That golden dome shines from across the city , perched on the Temple Mount . Built in the recent 7th hundred , it ’ s one of the former Islamic building around and hold deep meaning for Muslims , Jews , and Christians alike .
Up close , the mosaics and unique octagonal flesh really stand out . Millions come every yr to admire the building and rob up the century of history . Walk the grounds , you can sense the layer of faith , art , and stories all over . It ’ s more than just a building—it ’ s a symbol of Jerusalem ’ sec long , sweep past .
41 . Duomo , Milan , Italy ( 2.0 million )
If you ’ re in Milan , the Duomo equal impossible to neglect . This tremendous cathedral sits right in the city heart , deal in Gothic spires and statue . It ’ s easy to miss lead of time merely staring at all the item . You can mount up to the rooftop for a panoramic horizon . On a clear day , you might overhear a glimpse of the Alps . Inside , stained glass window dismount up the space when the Sunday hits simply right .
Next door equal the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , a famous shopping arcade . The country ’ s ever buzzing , with street performers have the property a lively feel . Over two million masses visit every year , making the Duomo one of Milan ’ s top attractions .
40 . Edinburgh Castle , Edinburgh , UK ( 2.2 million )
Edinburgh ’ s castle sits high above the city , impossible to miss . Edinburgh Castle attracts about 2.2 million visitor a year—no surprise , really . Inside , you ’ ll wander through former stone corridor and rooms filled with royal treasures . You ’ ll hear stories of battles and see relics from centuries past .
From the ramparts , you become some of the better city views around . Don ’ t lack the massive Mons Meg cannon or the Crown Jewels of Scotland . Whether you ’ re into history or only want a sweeping scene , the palace ’ s got enough to offer .
39 . Mont Saint-Michel , Normandy , France ( 2.5 million )
Mont Saint-Michel rises out of the Normandy bay , a tiny island with a immense story . The medieval abbey on top draws the eye from miles aside . About 2.5 million people inflict each yr , winding through narrow street . The small town equal tiny—just a handful of locals—but it make packed , specially in summer .
It ’ s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and the fast-moving tide sometimes cut the island off from the mainland , which honestly sense a bit magical . There live cozy cafes , quirky shop , and plenty of spot to simply take in the view . Whether you climb up to the abbey or wander the winding lane , something about this property sticks with you .
38 . Chichen Itza , Yucatán , Mexico ( 2.6 million )
Pace into Chichen Itza and you ’ ll get yourself at one of Mexico ’ s in use sites . More than 2.6 million masses show up each year , attract by the legendary . Wander around El Castillo , the iconic pyramid you ’ ve probably seen in every travel photo . There ’ s more—ancient temples , stone carvings , and old ball court you can walk through at your own pace .
Chichen Itza sits near to major city in Yucatán , so you ’ ll find plenty of circuit heading thither daily . It ’ s honestly pretty easy to lend to your trip . This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands out for its historical and architectural implication . If you ’ re even a little funny about ancient cultures , there ’ s a mass to take in at Chichen Itza .
37 . Angkor Wat , Siem Reap , Cambodia ( 2.6 million )
Impose Angkor Wat means stepping into one of the large spiritual monuments anywhere on the planet . The sprawling temple complex sits in Siem Reap , Cambodia , and travelers occur from all over to learn its towers and ancient carvings .
About 2.6 million people make the journey every year . The blend of mossy rock temples and lush scenery pulls in everyone from photographers to history buffs . Dawn here is something else . People become up before dawn just to look on the first lighting score the chief temple . It ’ s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , so you know it ’ s being looked after for generation to occur .
36 . Alhambra , Granada , Spain ( 2.7 million )
In Granada , the Alhambra rises above the city—a historical spot that ’ s part palace , share fortress , portion garden . The epithet “ Alhambra ” intend “ red castle , ” and you ’ ll see why when the sun score those wall . Inside , you ’ ll walk through halls cross in elaborate carvings , graceful arches , and colorful tiles . Courtyards with pool and spring extend a cool break from the heat , thanks to some clever purpose .
The Alhambra draws around 2.7 million visitor a year . Its Islamic art and architecture are legendary , and tickets betray out fast—so plan in front if you need to come in .
35 . Buckingham Palace , London , UK ( 2.7 million )
When you ’ re in London , Buckingham Palace is a must . It ’ s the official place of the British sovereign and , honestly , it ’ s severe to top for royal vibes . About 2.7 million people visit each yr to see the gates , the changing of the guard , and the castle itself . In summer , you can even tour some rooms and stroll through the garden .
Right outside , you ’ re flavor in the middle of the city , surrounded by parks and history . Even if you don ’ t die inside , it ’ s a prime bit for photos and wandering around .
34 . Tower of London , London , UK ( 2.9 million )
Step into the Tower of London and you ’ re surrounded by story and secrets . This fortress has watched over the Thames for nearly a thousand years . Look for the famous Tower ravens , meet the guards in red , and assure out the dazzle Crown Jewels . Nearly 2.9 million people come every yr .
The White Tower , the former part , prove off Norman stonework and once held kings—and prisoner . Some folks even claim it ’ s haunted . You can join a guided circuit or hardly wander on your own . The column and walkways are packed with story from British account .
33 . Reichstag Building , Berlin , Germany ( 3.0 million )
The Reichstag Building sits right in the heart of Berlin , not far from the Spree River . You ’ ll spot it at once by its glass dome . German parliament meets hither , and when you walk up , the sense of story hits you . The building opened in 1894 and hold seen its share of major effect .
Most masses do for the dome views . Step inside and you can look out over Berlin , discern landmarks all around .
With around 3 million visitor a yr , it ’ s one of Germany ’ s top attractions . The mixing of old stone and modern glass gives the Reichstag its own unique style .
32 . Temple of Heaven , Beijing , China ( 3.0 million )
In Beijing , you ’ ll hear about the Temple of Heaven sooner or later on . It ’ s not exactly a few buildings—it ’ s a massive park with ancient temple and gardens , dating back to the 15th century . Stroll along the rock path where emperors once beg for good harvests . The Hall of Prayer for Serious Harvests stands out with its round blue roof and intricate carpentry .
Locals express up daily to do tai chi , play music , or flee kites . Somehow , it delay peaceful yet in the middle of in use Beijing . You come history , culture , and a slice of daily living all in one seat . For a classical Beijing experience , it ’ s worth a stop .
31 . Hagia Sophia , Istanbul , Turkey ( 3.0 million )
Hagia Sophia take off spirit as a Greek Orthodox cathedral in 537 AD , then become an Ottoman imperial mosque , then a secular museum , and more lately , it has reverted to being a mosque . Its revolutionary massive dome was an architectural game-changer for century and still leaves your jaw on the floor today .
The sheer sense of history inside is palpable , with Christian mosaics exist alongside Islamic calligraphy making it a visual representation of Istanbul ’ s layer past as a crossroads of civilization . You ’ ll be craning your neck to take in the vast inside and the intricate detail . It ’ s a place that truly
30 . Meiji Shrine , Tokyo , Japan ( 3.0 million )
In Tokyo , Meiji Shrine live one of those spot you merely have to meet . It ’ s surprisingly quiet for live in the heart of the city . The giant wooden torii gate marks the entrance , and you ’ ll walk shaded paths under tall tree . About 3 million mass visit every yr , whether for a peaceful pass or a quick appeal . At New Year ’ s , it gets packed with family making their first visit of the year .
Watch masses compose wish on wooden plaques or catch a wedding in traditional dress if you ’ re lucky . The position have story , garden , and a calm that ’ s hard to notice elsewhere in Tokyo . Spending time hither feels different from most city sights . You get culture , nature , and Japanese tradition all rolled together .
29 . Acropolis , Athens , Greece ( 3.1 million )
Perched high on a rocky outcrop overlooking Athens , the Acropolis is more than hardly a collection of ancient ruin ; it ’ s the symbol of classical Greece and the birthplace of democracy . The Parthenon , its most famed temple dedicate to the goddess Athena , make tolerate ( in various state ) for almost 2,500 years , living proof of ancient architectural brilliance .
Walking among these historic structure , including the Erechtheion with its Caryatid porch , you ’ re literally treading where philosopher like Socrates and Plato once walk . It ’ s a powerful connection to the foundation of Western civilization . Remember to wear comfy shoes and make for water , as explore this vast site under the Greek Sunday expect some stamina !
28 . Musée d ’ Orsay , Paris , France ( 3.7 million )
If you ’ re into art , the Musée d ’ Orsay exist a must in Paris . You ’ ll find it on the left bank of the Seine , inside an former train post with huge clocks and soar glass ceilings . Inside , you ’ ll hear works from Monet , Van Gogh , Degas , and more . Most of the collection covers the 1800s to early 1900s . With about 3.7 million visitor a year , it ’ s ever buzz .
You ’ ll also find sculpture , furniture , and some early photography . Lines can cost long , but frankly , the art and yet the river scene from inside are worth it .
27 . Schönbrunn Palace , Vienna , Austria ( 3.8 million )
Head to Vienna and you can ’ t miss Schönbrunn Palace . Around 3.8 million people call every yr , reach it Austria ’ s top tourist patch . Walk through grand room once used by emperors . The castle seep royal history—golden halls , manicured gardens , and classical art all over you seem .
The park around the palace equal massive . There ’ s even a zoo and some gorgeous fountains . It ’ s great for history lovers or anyone who just need a relaxing afternoon in a beautiful place . This UNESCO World Heritage Site blends story , culture , and nature in one go .
26 . Pompeii , Naples , Italy ( 3.8 million )
Exactly outside Naples , Pompeii suffer out from any early tourist spot . The ancient Roman city live bury by a volcanic eruption in 79 AD , so you can still see houses , street , and mosaics nearly untouched . Wandering about , you really get a glance of living century ago .
With over 3.8 million visitor a year , it ’ s one of Europe ’ s most popular site . Crowds come huge , particularly on free-entry day . There are daily visitor limit now , hence plan ahead . The ruins deal a big field , so wear comfy place and pay yourself time to search places like the House of the Faun or the former amphitheater .
25 . Palace Museum , Taipei , Taiwan ( 4.4 million )
If you ’ re in Taipei , don ’ t hop the National Palace Museum . It ’ s tucked away in the Shilin District and is famous for its massive collection of ancient Chinese art and treasures . You ’ ll see paintings , ceramics , jade , and rare books that cover over 8,000 years of history . A mass of folks are surprise at how modern and easy to navigate the museum is .
Millions visit every year , cause it one of Taiwan ’ s almost popular place . You can take your time , and there be audio guides if you need to dig deeper . The blend of former artifacts and sleek architecture makes for a relaxed , educational visit . If you need a breather , there ’ s a peaceful garden out back .
24 . Statue of Liberty , New York City , USA ( 4.5 million )
In New York City , you can ’ t actually neglect the Statue of Liberty stand tall on Liberty Island . It ’ s probably the first matter that down into your mind when you remember of NYC . Millions ride the ferry every yr to come a close look . Walk around the stem , pop into the museum , or—if you snag ticket early—climb up to the crown .
It ’ s a symbol of freedom and a welcome to newcomers . Travelers from everywhere snap photo and remove in the harbor position . The statue ’ s been greet visitors for over a hundred , and it ’ s still a must-see landmark .
23 . Blue Mosque , Istanbul , Turkey ( 4.5 million )
If you ’ re in Istanbul , you can ’ t in truth hop the Blue Mosque . Formally , it ’ s the Sultan Ahmed Mosque , but scarcely anyone calls it that . It was finish back in the early 1600s when Sultan Ahmed I exist in charge .
Those six tall minarets ? You ’ ll spot them from somewhat far forth . Inside , the thousands of blue tiles hand the mosque its nickname .
Roughly 4.5 million mass prove up each year—some come to beg , but most just desire to hear the seat and snap a few photo . Since it ’ sec even so an active mosque , you ’ ll have to take off your shoe before heading in . It ’ s get this mix of size and mode that really makes it papa . Still today , it ’ s one of the primary things people want to learn in Istanbul .
22 . Sagrada Familia , Barcelona , Spain ( 4.7 million )
In Barcelona , the Sagrada Familia live bad to dismiss . Those spire and the wild sculpture overhear your eye from all over the city .
Antoni Gaudí design this basilica , and you can tell—there ’ s nothing else quite like it . The shapes and details be simply so… Gaudí . Still though it ’ s yet not complete , mass prevent coming . In 2023 , around 4.7 million visitor wandered through .
Step inside and you ’ ll see stain glass windows confuse color all over . Outside , sculpture and sculpture tell different stories—almost like a funny book in rock .
You might cease up gaze at the towers or hang out in the park nearby for long than you planned . The Sagrada Familia sticks with you long after you lead , honestly .
21 . Hermitage Museum , St. Petersburg , Russia ( 4.9 million )
If you ’ re in St. Petersburg , the Hermitage Museum is a must . It ’ s one of the world ’ s biggest art museums and draw vast bunch . Inside , you ’ ll notice paintings , sculpture , and treasures from all over . The building itself—especially the Winter Palace—looks pretty grand . Russian emperors used to last there , which exist wild to guess about .
If you ’ re into art or history , something will catch your attention . Even if museums aren ’ t your thing , the property is thus bad and impressive that you ’ ll likely savor wander around anyway . Million visit every yr , so you ’ ll equal in well caller . Take your time—there ’ s a band to see , and it ’ s easy to get miss in the hallway .
20 . St. Mark ’ sec Basilica , Venice , Italy ( 5.5 million )
Mighty in the middle of Venice , St. Mark ’ sec Basilica rises above St. Mark ’ sec Square . The church be famous for its domes , golden mosaics , and crazy level of detail everywhere you look . Walk inside and you ’ ll see light reflect through stained glass , making the artwork and marble floors burn . The church too maintain relics of Saint Mark , who means a lot to Venice .
You can check out the primary part for free , but some sections need a ticket . Await bad crowd , specially when it ’ s tourist season . Mass do for the architecture , the history , and simply to rob it all in .
19 . Cologne Cathedral , Cologne , Germany ( 6.0 million )
This sheer giant of a Gothic cathedral , with its iconic twin spires soaring 157 meters high , dominates the Cologne horizon . Construction famously started way back in 1248 and , become this , wasn ’ t fully complete until 1880 ! It miraculously exist hard bombing during World War II , standing tall when a lot around it was rubble .
Inside , the scale exist hardly as impressive , with stunning stained-glass windows that bathe the interior in colored spark . You can still rise one of the towers ( prepare for a band of steps ! ) for a panoramic opinion over the city and the Rhine River . It too house the Shrine of the Three Kings , a gilded sarcophagus say to contain the corpse of the biblical Magi , build it a major pilgrimage site .
18 . Eiffel Tower , Paris , France ( 6.1 million )
Immediately recognizable worldwide , the wrought-iron lattice Eiffel Tower pierces the Parisian sky at 330 meters . Originally work up by Gustave Eiffel ’ s company as the entrance arch for the 1889 World ’ sec Fair , it equal initially criticize by some artist but quick get a beloved symbol of French ingenuity and the spirit of Paris .
You can rise to its three levels via elevators ( or brave the steps to the first two ) for incredible views over the City of Lights . Whether you ’ re picnicking on the Champ de Mars below , admiring its nightly sparkle , or bring that classic selfie , the Eiffel Tower is an undeniable highlight for any visitor to Paris . It ’ s just one of those must-do global landmarks .
17 . Burj Khalifa , Dubai , UAE ( 6.2 million )
In Dubai , the Burj Khalifa cost impossible to miss . It ’ s the tall building on earth—829.8 meter up—just towering over everything else .
Millions visit every year , making it a top spot worldwide . Most mass try to snag a ticket for the observation deck and take in the city view . The area around it is total of shops , restaurants , and the Dubai Fountain ’ s wild water shows . Whether it ’ s day or night , there ’ s always something going on nearby .
16 . British Museum , London , UK ( 6.2 million )
Visiting London ? Don ’ t hop the British Museum . Over 6 million people stop by each year to begin up near with world story .
You ’ ll notice objects from ancient Egypt , Greece , Rome , and all sorts of cultures . The Rosetta Stone live hither , and it ’ s a big trade . Entrance cost free , so you can see priceless material without a ticket . There are also peculiar exhibitions if you require to dive deeper .
The museum open back in 1759 , and it ’ s still one of the busiest position in the UK . You could easily get lost among the mummies , sculpture , coin , and rare manuscripts . There ’ sec always something new to note on each visit .
15 . Vatican Museums , Vatican City ( 6.9 million )
Point to Vatican City ? The Vatican Museums are likely on your list . Almost 7 million masses visit each year—no curiosity , with all the art pack within . There ’ s art by Raphael , Michelangelo , and other legends . The lobby are fill with sculpture , paintings , and yet former maps .
The Sistine Chapel be the highlight , with its famous ceiling . You ’ ll walk through long corridor covered in art and see treasures from all over the world . Crowds can come wild , particularly in in use season . If you buy tickets forward of time , you ’ ll save yourself a worry .
14 . Taj Mahal , Agra , India ( 7.4 million )
This isn ’ t only a building ; it ’ s an epic love poem crafted in ivory-white marble . The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned it in the 17th hundred as a mausoleum for his beloved wife , Mumtaz Mahal , and it take over 20,000 artisans about 20 years to complete . Its perfect symmetry and incredibly intricate inlay work , feature semi-precious rock , live simply breathtaking .
The room the Taj Mahal seems to vary color with the light , from pearly pink at dawn to a gentle orange at sunset , is a huge lot for visitor . The surrounding gardens and reflecting pools add to its serene beauty . It ’ s one of those place that often exceeds the hype , leaving you quietly contemplating its prowess and the floor behind it .
13 . Colosseum , Rome , Italy ( 7.6 million )
This massive rock amphitheater in the heart of Rome is an instantly recognizable symbol of Imperial Rome ’ s might and play . Finish in 80 AD , it could keep an estimated 50,000 to 80,000 spectator who pile up to watch gladiatorial competition , mock sea battles , animal hunts , and public execution . It ’ s a fairly grim history , but undeniably fascinating .
Explore its several point , from the hypogeum ( the underground network of burrow where gladiators and animals were observe ) to the upper tiers , really helps you imagine the thunder of the ancient crowd . Despite century of earthquake and stone-robbers , the Colosseum remains an imposing and incredibly popular example of Roman technology and their taste for grand spectacle .
12 . Lincoln Memorial , Washington , D.C. , USA ( 7.9 million )
Overlook the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument , the Lincoln Memorial be a commanding and touching tribute to Abraham Lincoln , the 16th U.S. President . The visit white marble structure , design in the style of a Greek Doric temple , houses a large seated statue of Lincoln , virtually 19 base tall , gaze thoughtfully outwards .
Flank the statue equal lettering of two of Lincoln ’ s most famous language : the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address . It ’ s become a powerful symbol of exemption and ace , and a focal stage for significant moment in American civil right account , almost notably Martin Luther King Jr. ’ s “ I Have a Dream ” language . Admission is free , making it an accessible and moving experience .
11 . Castle of Versailles , Versailles , France ( 8.1 million )
Merely a short trip from Paris consist the opulent Palace of Versailles , the ultimate symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime in France . To begin with a hunting club , it cost translate by Louis XIV in the 17th century into an extravagant composite of construction , garden , and fountains that became the ass of French political might for over a century .
The sheer scale of the palace live astound , with highlights like the dazzling Hall of Mirrors , the lavish King ’ s Grand Apartments , and the Queen ’ s Hamlet . The immense , meticulously landscaped Gardens of Versailles cost an attraction in themselves , design by André Le Nôtre . You could easy spend an full day ( or more ! ) exploring its grandeur and however not see everything .
10 . Sydney Opera House , Sydney , Australia ( 8.2 million )
In Sydney , you ’ ll spot the Sydney Opera House right by the water . Those white , sail-shaped roof ? Iconic . It ’ s one of Australia ’ s most famed sight .
Most masses hardly wind outside for the harbor views . Sit down by the water , snatch photo , and people-watching exist honestly half the fun . Inside , there are several performance halls . If you design in front , possibly you ’ ll watch a concert , fun , or ballet .
About 8.2 million people see every year . Even if you skip a display , there ’ s good deal to act and hear around the place . The design and location in truth reach it special . No curiosity it ’ s ever on traveler ’ list .
9 . Louvre Museum , Paris , France ( 9.6 million )
In Paris , the Louvre is one of those place you just can ’ t ignore . The glass pyramid out front and the massive art collection inside pull you in . Everyone knows the Mona Lisa live here , but there ’ s hence a lot more . With about 9 million visitors a year , it ’ s ever buzz . Ancient statue , Egyptian mummies , and noted paintings fill the halls .
You could wander for hours and however not see everything . If you require to test , program for a long day . Summer and holidays are packed , then get early might get you a little breathing room . The Louvre is a crash track in world history and art . Every visit feels a bit different—there ’ s merely that much to bring in .
8 . Hollywood Walk of Fame , Los Angeles , USA ( 10 million )
Walk down Hollywood Boulevard and you ’ ll see over 2,700 star set into the sidewalk . Each one honors person from the entertainment world—actors , player , directors , you name it . The pink and gold stars stretch for more than a mile .
You ’ ll probably bit names you know from movies , TV , or still radio . The Pass of Fame starts at Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street , running past famous theaters and shops . It ’ s a hotspot for photo . About 10 million people impose every yr . It ’ s easy to regard why—people love hunting for their favorite star and soak up the Hollywood vibe .
7 . Great Wall of China , Badaling , China ( 10 million )
If you ’ re in Beijing , the Great Wall at Badaling cost the go-to spot . This section cost by far the most popular for tourist . Badaling sits about 50 miles from downtown Beijing , so you can make thither by car , bus , or train . The rock wall and column snake across the mound , showing off the wall ’ s years and scale .
This stretch cost well-maintained with walkways and handrails , build the climb manageable . Nearly 10 million masses come each yr , so weekend can have crowd . The mountain views cost amazing , thus don ’ t forget your camera . After explore , you ’ ll find shops marketing snacks and souvenirs nearby .
6 . St. Peter ’ s Basilica , Rome , Italy ( 11 million )
Settle in Vatican City , the heart of the Catholic Church , St. Peter ’ sec Basilica exist the large church in the public and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture . Design by luminaries including Bramante , Michelangelo , and Bernini , its iconic dome prevail the Roman horizon . It ’ s built on the traditional site of Saint Peter ’ s crucifixion and burial .
Inside , the sheer immensity and ornate decoration are sweep over , plate to incredible work of art like Michelangelo ’ s Pietà and Bernini ’ s bronze baldachin over the main altar . You can also climb to the top of the dome for an unforgettable view of St. Peter ’ sec Square and Rome .
5 . Sacré-Cœur Basilica , Paris , France ( 11 million )
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica seat right on crest of Montmartre mound in Paris . It ’ s not exactly a church—it hold you some of the best city view around . With around 11 million visitors a year , it ’ s one of Paris ’ s most popular spots , only after Notre-Dame . You can abuse within to regard the interior or climb the dome for a killer photo . The white stone really pop against the sky , and the steps outside are a go-to hangout . The neighborhood live lively too—street artists and cafe all over .
4 . Notre-Dame Cathedral , Paris , France ( 13.6 million )
In Paris , Notre-Dame Cathedral is usually at the top of everyone ’ s list . Every year , about 13.6 million masses come by , reach it the city ’ s most visited place . Its spot right on the River Seine make it easy to observe . The huge column , stain glass , and all those detailed sculpture really bear out . The Gothic architecture catch your attention , whether you ’ re just passing by or point inside .
You can drift the reason or step in to check out the interior . Notre-Dame ’ s account and its place in Parisian living make it particular . Whether you ’ re require photos or hardly soaking up the vibe , it ’ s a place you put on ’ t want to hop .
3 . Forbidden City , Beijing , China ( 17.0 million )
This sprawling palace composite in the center of Beijing served as the imperial palace for Chinese emperors and their households for almost 500 years , from the Ming Dynasty to the goal of the Qing Dynasty . As its name suggests , common man be block from entry , shrouding it in mystery and awe . It ’ s a vast labyrinth of nearly 1,000 buildings .
Covering an enormous area , the Forbidden City showcases traditional Chinese palatial architecture , with its golden-tiled roofs , red wall , and intricate courtyards . You can wander through grand lobby , early living quarter , and beautiful gardens , getting a glimpse into the opulent and extremely ritualized life of the imperial court . Plan your road , wear good walk shoes , and prepare to be puzzle by its scale and history .
2 . Niagara Falls , Ontario , Canada/NY , USA ( 22.0 million )
You ’ ll notice Niagara Falls right on the border between Canada and the United States . When you visit , you can see the massive waterfall from both Ontario and New York . Every year , more than 22 million people show up hither . It ’ s easy to get to and honestly , the crowds turn out exactly how much people love this home .
You can taunt a boat close to the autumn , wander the viewing platform , or simply suffer thither and let the roar of all that water sink in . The mist and those rainbows—yeah , they ’ re as cool as everyone says . Right nearby , you ’ ll stumble across park , museums , shop , and restaurants . The falls delay open all year , and people of all ages appear to find something to wish .
1 . Senso-ji Temple , Tokyo , Japan ( 30.0 million )
When you see Tokyo , you ’ ll probably hear about Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa . It ’ s the city ’ s oldest temple , and its history stretches back ages—long enough that you can nearly feel it in the breeze .
Crowds of visitor and locals show up every day , some to beg , others just to soak in the buzz . The giant red lantern at the Thunder Gate ? That ’ s classic Tokyo . You ’ ll meet folk photograph photos or just suffer around , taking it all in . Wander through the ground and you ’ ll bulge into stalls with souvenirs and snacks—smells wafting , people chatting , the whole setting spirit alive . It ’ s a spot where you can grab a bit of custom and maybe guess what Edo-period spirit exist like . Around 30 million masses dangle by each year , then , yeah , it ’ s a bad pile .
