Architecture is all around us in the form of buildings, bridges, and other structures that we see every day. For architecture enthusiasts, traveling to destinations that showcase the best of architectural marvels is a must-do. This list compiles some of the best architecture destinations worldwide that offer a mix of modern, contemporary, medieval, and ancient styles. Discover the beauty of architecture by visiting these must-see places around the world.
1. Athens, Greece
Architecture in Athens: : Ancient Greek architecture
Architectural Highlight in Athens: The Acropolis
The birthplace of Western Civilization as we know it today, Athens showcases the best of ancient Greek architecture. Easily identifiable in the form of white marble (once a splatter of colour!) and the iconic columns, the city is home to ancient landmarks like the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Architecture in Barcelona: Catalan Modernism
Architectural Highlight in Barcelona: Sagrada Familia
Barcelona is famous for its architecture influenced by Catalan Modernism. This is an architectural style that weaves together art and functionality, and is a celebration of Catalonia's culture. This style's most prominent architect, Antoni Gaudi, is behind many of the masterpieces of this style dotting Barcelona's cityscape. His designs of distinctive buildings such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà, are a must-see for any architecture enthusiast visiting Barcelona. Barcelona also features a beautiful Gothic Quarter that showcases medieval architecture.
3. Brasilia, Brazil
Architecture in Brasilia: Modernist Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Brasilia: National Congress
Brasilia is home to some of the best of modernist architecture in the world, designed by the famous architect Oscar Niemeyer. The city's futuristic buildings were built in the 1960s and are a testimony to Niemeyer's vision of architecture as a tool for social change. The city features iconic structures like the National Congress, the Presidential Palace, and the Cathedral of Brasilia.
4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Architecture in Dubai: Futuristic and Contemporary Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Dubai: Burj Khalifa
Dubai is known for its record-breaking, over-the-top architecture, and futuristic designs. In the last few years. Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and the Burj Al Arab, the world's most luxurious hotel, Dubai's skyline has become extremely recognisable in the last few years. The Dubai Mall, with its stunning water features and contemporary design, is also a must-visit.
5. Florence, Italy
Architecture in Florence: Renaissance Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Florence: Florence Cathedral
Home to one of the most revolutionary art movements in history, walking through Florence is like walking through a Renaissane museum itself. With every other street paying homage to Renaissance maestros, the city boasts landmarks like the Florence Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. Florence is also home to several examples of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
6. Istanbul, Turkey
Architecture in Istanbul: Ottoman Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Istanbul: Hagia Sophia
Istanbul, capital of modern Turkey and once known as Constantinople, the capital of the Holy Roman Empire, lies on the crossroads of Europe and Asia. Its historic blend of cultures reflects in the city's ethos and cityscape. Known for its Ottoman architecture, with its intricate designs and colorful tiles, Istanbul's architectural highlights include the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.
7. Jaipur, India
Architecture in Jaipur: Rajput Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Jaipur: Amber Fort
The city of Jaipur was founded by the prominent Rajput King, Maharaja Jai Singh II, is known for its stunning Rajput architecture. Known for its intricate designs and use of vibrant colours, what makes Rajput architecture so distinctive is that it is a blend of Mughal, Rajasthani, and Hindu styles. Hawa Mahal, the Jal Mahal and the Amber Fort are among crown jewels of this city, and a must-see if you want to experience the splendor of the Rajputana.
8. Moscow, Russia
Architecture in Moscow: Russian Baroque and Soviet Modernism
Architectural Highlight in Moscow: St. Basil's Cathedral
Moscow is a city that showcases a mix of architectural styles, ranging from traditional Russian Baroque to Soviet Modernism. Two very contrasting styles, Russian Baroque architecture is characterized by its exuberance and boasts of intricate ornamentation, while Soviet Modernism architecture is a product of the Soviet Union's era and showcases bold geometric forms and functional design. The city's iconic landmarks include the Kremlin, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the Moscow State University.
9. New York City, USA
Architecture in New York City: Art Deco and Skyscrapers
Architectural Highlight in New York City: Empire State Building
New York, the city of dreams and often cited as an art hub, is famous for its towering skyscrapers and Art Deco architecture. The city's skyline is one of the most recognisable in the world, silhouetted by buildings like the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the One World Trade Center.
10. Paris, France
Architecture in Paris: Beaux-Arts and Art Nouveau
Architectural Highlight in Paris: Notre-Dame Cathedral
Rooted in the objective to modernize the city and improve hygiene, Paris underwent a transformative renovation in the mid-19th century, resulting in wide boulevards, elegant buildings, and cohesive urban planning. Late 19th Century saw Art Nouveau emerge, seeking to incorporate organic forms and decorative motifs into art and architecture. This the city's symbols - the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe - were born!
11. Petra, Jordan
Architecture in Petra: Nabatean Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Petra: The Treasury
Petra is an ancient city that's famous for its stunning Nabatean architecture, developed by the Nebateans, an ancient Arab civilization. One of Nabatean architecture's greatest attributes lies in the mastery of rock-cut facades, where intricate details and exquisite craftsmanship are carved directly into the solid rock, showcasing an unparalleled level of skill and artistry. Some of the most popular landmarks in Petra are the Treasury, the Monastery, and the Great Temple.
12. Rome, Italy
Architecture in Rome: Ancient Roman Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Rome: Colosseum
One of the greatest powers of the ancient West, Rome is home to few of the architectural wonders that still remain of the Roman Empire. Every cobblestoned street of the city is seeped in history, with ruins around every corner. The time worn ruins of landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Pantheon, and the Roman Forum.
13. Sydney, Australia
Architecture in Sydney: Modern and Contemporary Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Sydney: Sydney Opera House
Sydney, Australia, a vibrant and cosmopolitan metropolis, captivates with its iconic Sydney Opera House and picturesque harbor, blending stunning natural beauty with a bustling urban landscape. For architecture enthusiasts, this city is a prime example modern and contemporary architecture. The city's iconic landmarks include the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the Queen Victoria Building.
14. Tokyo, Japan
Architecture in Japan: Contemporary and Traditional Japanese Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Tokyo: Tokyo Skytree
A perfect blend of modernism and traditional Japanese architecture (particularly from the Meiji Era), Tokyo is a unique city architecturally. In stark contrast with its spectacular contemporary buildings of glass and steel, are Tokyo's traditional wooden buildings with sliding doors (fusuma and shoji), and graceful rooflines, a testament to the city's ability to preserve tradition while embracing modernism. The city's iconic landmarks include the Tokyo Skytree, the Tokyo Tower, and the Meiji Shrine.
15. Venice, Italy
Architecture in Venice: Venetian Gothic and Renaissance Architecture
Architectural Highlight in Venice: St. Mark's Basilica
Venice may be famous for its canals but its stunning Venetian Gothic and Renaissance architecture are worth a mention. Venetian Gothic style architecture can be identified by its delicate blend of Gothic elements and Byzantine influences. Its most notable feature is the intricate tracery, known as "fondaco" or "quatrefoil," adorning the windows and arches. Some of the best known examples of this style in the city are landmarks like the the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Rialto Bridge.
