Are you a history enthusiast looking for the perfect travel destination? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best historical cities for your next tour. From Rome to Barcelona, these cities offer an abundance of historical landmarks and events that will transport you to a bygone era. Get ready to explore some of the most fascinating sites in the world.
#1 Rome, Italy
Known as ‘The Eternal City’ Rome is stepped in history, with a legacy that spans thousands of years. The ancient city was the center of the Roman Empire, and its architecture, art, and culture have influenced Western civilization for centuries. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. When in Rome, don't forget to visit the Vatican City, the smallest country in the world and home to the famous Sistine Chapel.
What to See in Rome: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon
Best Historical Tours in Rome
#2 Athens, Greece
Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and is known as the birthplace of democracy. It was also a major cultural center, with renowned philosophers and writers such as Plato, Aristotle, and Sophocles calling it home. Visitors can explore the magnificent ruins of the Acropolis, which includes the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Propylaea. The National Archaeological Museum is also a must-see, with an impressive collection of Greek antiquities.
What to See in Athens: Acropolis, National Archaeological Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus
Best Historical Tours in Athens
#3 Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, formerly known as Constantinople, has a rich history that spans over 2,500 years. It was the capital of both the Byzantine and Ottoman empires and has been influenced by both Western and Eastern cultures. Visitors can explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, which was once a church, then a mosque, and now a museum. The Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar are also must-sees when in Istanbul.
What to See in Athens: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque
Best Historical Tours in Istanbul
#4 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, also known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a walled city that dates back to the 7th century. It was an important trading center during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can walk along the city walls, which offer stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. They can also explore the Rector's Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Sponza Palace.
What to See in Dubrovnik: City Walls, Rector's Palace, Franciscan Monastery
#5 Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, also known as the "City of a Hundred Spires," is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has a rich history that dates back to the 9th century and was an important cultural and economic center during the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore the Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, and the Old Town Square, which features stunning Gothic architecture. The Jewish Quarter, the Charles Bridge, and the St. Vitus Cathedral are also must-sees when in Prague.
What to See in Prague: Prague Castle, Old Town Prague, Charles Bridge
Best Historical Tours in Prague
#6 Siem Reap, Cambodia
Siem Reap is a city in northwestern Cambodia that is best known as the gateway to the ancient temples of Angkor. The city is located near the largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat, which was built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple and later became a Buddhist temple. Siem Reap has a rich history and culture that can be seen in its various temples, museums, and traditional performances. The city also played a significant role in the Khmer Rouge regime in the late 1970s.
What to See in Siem Reap: Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm Temple
#7 Florence, Italy
Florence, also known as Firenze, was the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, which brought about an explosion of creativity in art, literature, and science. Florence is also known for being the center of the banking and commercial world during the medieval era. The city has played an essential role in shaping modern-day Italy, and its significance in the world of art, literature, and science is unparalleled.
What to See in Florence: The Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore), The Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio
Best Historical Tours in Florence
#8 Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a city with a rich cultural heritage and history that dates back to the Roman era. The city has been shaped by the influence of different cultures and civilizations, including the Romans, the Visigoths, the Moors, and the Catalans. Barcelona has a unique architectural style, with a blend of Gothic, Modernism, and contemporary designs. The city is also known for being the birthplace of many influential artists, such as Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, and Antoni Gaudí.
What to See in Barcelona: La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló
Best Historical Tours in Barcelona
#9 Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a vibrant city that has been a significant cultural and trading center for centuries. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and bustling souks. Marrakech has seen many civilizations come and go, including the Berbers, Arabs, and French. It was an important center for the Islamic empire and was known for its scholars and artists. Today, visitors can experience the city's fascinating history and culture through its many museums, palaces, and mosques.
What to See in Marrakech: Bahia Palace, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs
Best Historical Tours in Marrakech
#11 Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto was the imperial capital of Japan for over 1,000 years and is home to many of Japan's most important cultural landmarks. Kyoto has survived numerous wars and natural disasters, including World War II, and is considered a treasure trove of Japanese art and culture.
What to See in Kyoto: Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Best Historical Tours in Kyoto
#12 Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is the capital of Egypt and is one of the oldest cities in the world. It has been a center of Egyptian civilization for over 1,000 years and is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Cairo is home to some of the world's most iconic ancient landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
What to See in Cairo: The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum
Best Historical Tours in Cairo
#13 London, England
London is the capital of England and has been a center of European history and culture for centuries. The city has seen many significant events, including the Great Fire of London and World War II. Today, London is a bustling metropolis with many historic landmarks, museums, and galleries.
What to See in London: Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the British Museum
Best Historical Tours in London
#14 Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city has been a center of Scottish culture and politics for centuries and has seen many important events, including the Scottish Reformation and the Jacobite uprisings. Visitors can explore Edinburgh's fascinating history by visiting its many historic landmarks and museums.
What to See in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace
Best Historical Tours in Edinburgh
