When traveling, whether domestic or international, there is a lot to see for those who truly consider themselves to be history buffs. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the famous Stonehenge, the world is dotted with many historical landmarks, left right, and center. Whether they realize it or not, most people travel to exclusively visit historical monuments.
The history of humanity is truly magnificent. Think of it as a cloth or a fabric. Woven with strands of invention, conflict, cooperation, and evolution. Each strand creates the fabric we know today as mankind. Our story, which spans millions of years is sort of intertwined with significant events such as the appearance of the first hominids in Africa and the rise and fall of great civilizations such as Egypt or Rome. However, history also portrays darker periods characterized by injustice, colonization, and warfare. So you can consider our history to be almost like an award-winning Hollywood movie with a stereotypical plot. Even with all the trouble the human race has gone through, knowing our history helps us make sense of the complexity of our past and sets the direction for the future going forward.
This carefully crafted list will reveal the top best destinations that guarantee an exciting adventure back in time, from ancient temples to prehistoric ruins. So let’s set out on a mini adventure or perhaps a journey to see some of the best cities for casual historians.
Cario, Egypt
Now that we’ve gotten to number one, are you surprised? With its expansive wonder and intense history, Cairo reigns as the most historical city in the world. With an abundance of vibrant energy and a vast history, Cairo is truly a superior city. Over a millennium ago, Cairo emerged from an important Roman stronghold which eventually evolved into a hub of Islamic influence. Yet it was during the tenth century’s Fatimid dynasty when Cairo started to thrive. It was at this point that Cairo transformed into the hub of Egyptian civilization. Today, the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Al-Azhar and the gorgeous Khan El Khalili bazaar are reminders of Cairo’s history and culture.
Beyond its rich Islamic history, Cairo has a wealth of other attractions that draw in visitors from all over the world. Among them are the great pyramids of Giza, one of the last remaining seven wonders of the ancient world. These magnificent structures stand as a reminder of the ancient Egyptian world. Centuries of history have shaped Cairo into the diverse and fascinating city it is today.
Cairo is a treasure trove of ancient history waiting to be discovered by those with a passion for the past. Home to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, Cairo attracts millions of visitors every year with its magnificent historical artifacts and attractions such as the Egyptian Museum and the sphinx which add a whole new level of historical charm to the city. While you’re here, wander through the city’s winding streets, you can almost hear the echos of the ancient pharaohs and they’re tucked-away tales. It is really the trip of a lifetime. Overall, Cairo can easily be considered to be one of the most historical cities in the world.
Athens, Greece
Athens, the capital city of Greece, stands proudly as the backbone of Western civilization. The city itself is a thriving combination of ancient history, intense culture, and modern amenities. Founded 3,400 years ago, this historic city evolved into the hub of democracy and philosophy, shaping the very foundations of modern government around the world.
Under the leadership of Pericles, Athens prospered as a center of philosophy, literature, and the arts throughout the 5th century BC, known as the city’s “Golden Age.” Its busy streets were frequented by some of the most famous intellectuals such as Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates who laid the foundation for Western philosophy as we know it today. From the ancient temples within the Acropolis to the Pantheon, there is just so much history within the streets of Athens.
For history enthusiasts, Athens is one of the best places to visit. It is a city that offers an enchanting journey back in time, thousands of years. With the massive temple of Athena overlooking the city, the Greeks believe the goddess herself is proudly watching over and keeping their precious history safe, forever. Overall, if you’re looking for somewhere to visit with some pretty intense historical roots, look no further than Athens!
Rome, Italy
Rome stands as a powerful city, a reminder of the resilient Roma Empire and the true legacy of human civilization. Its rich past is deeply connected to the trajectory of Western History. Legend has it that in 753 BC, twin brothers Romulus and Remus laid the foundations for what would eventually become the bright, warm city of Rome. What began as a humble fishing village flourished into the grand capital of the mighty Roman Empire and its entire territory. Throughout the centuries, Rome has witnessed many significant events, such as the establishment of the Roman Republic in 509 BC, marked by political transformations and the rise of influential figures such as Julius Caesar. The transition to imperial rule ushered in a new era, with rulers such as Augustus and Hadrian leaving their lasting legacy through monumental architectural treasures such as the Pantheon and the Colosseum.
In Rome, you can truly relive the past in the present. With its many perfectly preserved Roman monuments, charming cobblestone streets, and ancient treasures, the city boasts a charming vibe like no other and comes alive in its history. You can consider the city of Rome to be one giant live museum. It doesn’t matter where you are in the city, you will always come across a fancy landmark with an intense but intriguing backstory. There is not a single city on this planet that is quite like Rome and if you genuinely love history, you will adore Rome.
Beijing, China
Beijing, the grand metropolis and capital of China is a rich and intense city with a history dating back to 3000 BC. Known as Peking in ancient times, this city has witnessed cultural rivals and even the switch from imperial rule to socialism. As the dominant political hub for numerous Chinese entities, Beijing’s history is unique but interesting at the same time. Once home to powerful Ming and Qing Emperors, Beijing is now a magnificent city home to many of the best palaces, courtyards, and gardens that shine as the city’s diamond in the ruff.
The city of Beijing has undergone multiple transformative periods throughout its history, particularly in the 20th century. The establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 marked a significant turning point, as revolutionary changes began to take place within the city. Tiananmen Square with its symbolic significance played a cruel role in shaping contemporary Chinese history. Even though its skyline is super modern and the streets are busy and full of life, reminders of Beijing’s intense past can still be found in its ancient hutongs, peaceful temples like the Temple of Heaven, and the breathtaking great waller lice that stretch across most of the Beijing greater area. Thus, Beijing is truly a unique blend of past and present making it iconic for those who just love history.
Overall, Beijing is one of the best cities to visit if you love history. From the local ancient temples to the famous Great Wall of China, Beijing offers an exciting experience for any homemade historian out there.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
With its prime location on the sparkling Adriatic Sea, it’s no wonder that Dubrovnik is hailed as the gem of Croatia. With a ton of rich history to share, the city’s ancient fortifications and winding streets are reminders of this country’s often referred to as the “pearl of the Adriatic” This enchanting city-state once rivaled the Romans as a major maritime power from the 14th – 19th century. Its strategic position made it so that the territory could become a hub of trade as well as a powerful city. Even though the city had been attacked numerous times by the Romans, the resilient outer wall kept the city safe from attacks preserving its Croatian and Adriatic roots. It can also be seen as one of the most powerful areas of Europe during the 14th – 19th century.
Dubrovnik’s journey through time has not been without its share of challenges. A devastating earthquake in 1667 left a significant impact on its architectural protection but the resilient city rose from the ruins and reconstructed relatively quickly, restoring the city to its near original state.
Dubrovnik’s ancient walls hold within them an abundance of interesting stories, making it an ideal destination for any history enthusiasts out there. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the world, Dubrovnik is the perfect place to explore and learn more about the history of Croatia.
Yucatan, Mexico
The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico is one of the most interesting regions of the country. Not only is it home to some of the largest resort cities in Mexico such as Cancun and Tulum, but it is also home to the beginning of the Mayan civilization. The Mayan Traditions and intricate heritage are still apparent in daily Mexican life, making it a strong part of Mexican culture.
Over centuries, the Mayan society thrived in the Yucatan region, constructing a modern society. The Mayans were considered to be very advanced with access to one-of-a-kind technology for the time. Not to mention, the culture had some aspects of modern culture today. The Mayan people even learned the concepts of art, building, astrology, and math way ahead of other civilizations around the world. The striking pyramids, temples, and intricate stone carvings in cities such as Chichen Itza, Uxmal, and Tulum are remnants of the strong history of the Mayans.
With its vast array of Mayan remains and indigenous history, Mexico is a fantastic choice for anyone who just adores history. With some intense Mayan history and a bit of Spanish Colonial history, Mexico is a treasure hence it is number six on the list.
Honolulu, Hawaii
In the stunning tropical haven of Hawaii, lies the lush city of Honolulu, known for its crystal clear waters and impressive landscapes. However, beneath the surface of this vacation destination lies the sad and brutal history of the December 7th, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. The move, initiated by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service is what formally pulled the United States into World War ll. The attack forever changed U.S. history.
Today, there are many meaningful memorials and museums dedicated to honoring the brave individuals who found themselves caught in the middle of a devastating battle. One such memorial, the USS Arizona, which happens to be the site of one of the sunken battleships, serves as a tragic reminder of the many lives that were lost that day. Amidst the natural beauty of Honolulu’s beaches and tropical rainforests, Pearl Harbor stands as an important symbol of the strength of the United States during the Second World War. It is also a major part of U.S. History.
Honolulu is one of the best places for a history buff and I’ll tell you why. The city is home to a wealth of historical sites with a hint of beautiful, pristine beaches and stunning bored. You not only have the history from the Second World War but also the indigenous history of the Native Hawaiians. So with the best of both worlds and the tropical paradise feel, you may feel like you’ve hit the jackpot by visiting Honolulu. Overall, this Polynesian destination is a great place to learn a bit of history and indulge in the past.
Cusco, Peru
Located way up high in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Cusco stands as the gateway to the ancient city of Macchu Picchu. Known as “Qosqo” in the native Quechua Language, Cusco was once the bright capital of the vast Incan Empire. Today, it showcases itself as a diverse combination of pre-Columbian heritage and Spanish Colonial influence.
Before the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, Cusco Flourished as the heart of the Inca civilization. Its territory ran from modern-day Colombia to Chile, so you can imagine that the Inca Empire held great significance within the South American Continent. Beyond its ceremonial and political role, this city has held great importance as a hub of spirituality, and artistic expression. The vast array of plazas, labyrinth-like streets, and colorful buildings is what makes the actual city of Cusco so unique and stunning.
After the Spanish conquered Cusco, the city went through a transformative phase marked by the emergence of colonial architecture and the construction of catholic churches on top of Inca temples. One prime example of this is the Cathedral of Santo Domingo. However, despite these remnants of the colonial era, Cusco remains the hub of Andean, Indigenous culture and history. Due to its proximity to the famous and beloved city of Macchu Picchu, Cusco is considered to be one of the most historic cities in the world. It is also one of the best places for history lovers in 2024.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi, the stunning capital of Georgia, is home to some of the most fascinating history evident in its charming cobblestone streets and unique buildings. Located on the black sea, this city has been a hub for numerous civilizations such as the Persians, Arabs, Mongols, Turks, and even the Russians. From ancient times to the present, the interesting but unique influence of multiple cultures is what makes Georgia so special.
The city’s name, derived from the Georgian word “Tbili” meaning heated, is a tribute to its famous sulfur springs. Its roots date back to the 5th century AD when it was a hub on the Silk Road. Throughout the centuries, Tbilisi has flourished into a melting pot of many different influences, religious beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. Many of its architecture today showcases its Byzantine, Persian, and Soviet influences such as the Narikala Fortress and the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which are some of the top attractions within the city.
The enchanting maze of small, cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and traditional wooden balconies in Tbilisi’s Old Toen can make you eager to discover the timeless essence of the city. Despite the many trials, tribulations, invasions, revolutions, and cultural revivals, the historic city remains the official hub of Georgian culture where old, perhaps ancient traditions intertwined with new, modern ways of life. Georgia is a fantastic option for history lovers. It is where wine was invented (The oldest wine was found in a Georgian vase dated back to 6000 BC) and it is one of the oldest countries in the world. Overall, it is a great country to visit especially, for those who just love history.
1Antigua, Guatemala
Located in the breathtaking mountains of Guatemala, built 1,530.17m above sea level, Antigua, Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich colonial past. Founded in the early 1500s, it served as the colonial capital of Spanish Central America for over two centuries, until a devastating earthquake in 1773 derailed its reign. After the mighty earthquake, the city was formally relocated to present-day Guatemala City. despite the severe weather within the city, most of Antigua’s structures were preserved and recognized by UNESCO as an official World Heritage Site in 1979.
The Colonial heritage of the city is brilliantly showcased through its colorful buildings, old churches, and old town hall. The beautiful and famous Santa Catalina Arch looks over the city and is almost considered to be the symbol of Antigua. With its bright yellow exterior and antique clock, the city’s landmark can be seen almost anywhere within the city’s limits. Originally built in 1694 Santa Cataline Arch was built to connect each building so that Catholic nuns could move freely between each side of the street without going outside. After the hurricane in 1773, most of the Arch had to be constructed into what it is today. It wasn’t until the 1800’s when France gifted the clock on the front of the Santa Catalina Arch which now happens to be the face of this beautiful landmark. In general, the city boasts its unique combination of Spanish and Indigenous influences.
Antigua is an important city in Spanish History. It is filled with stories of strength, resilience, and cultural exchange that go beyond its magnificent architecture and European-style cobblestone streets. As an immersive experience, Antigua also offers visitors the chance to experience the city’s true history. After all, the rich history of Antigua is what makes it so special. Overall, Antigua is a fantastic choice for those who love history or those looking to experience a historical destination like no other.
