10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to Add to Your Travel Itinerary

Explore 10 awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites worth traveling for

The UNESCO World Heritage List is a prestigious compilation of destinations and landmarks around the world that have been labeled as immensely significant to humanity, both culturally and naturally. It highlights the churches whose frescoes tell stories of centuries past, the villages that seem frozen in time, the natural wonders where beauty is untamed and unparalleled, the monuments and cities from which we learn. The list aims to preserve, ensuring these remarkable sites prosper, as well as educate, instilling a sense of awareness in generations to come. Beyond that, the list also inspires and motivates, offering up the world’s most spectacular destinations on a silver platter for those with uninhibited wanderlust.

While some UNESCO World Heritage Sites are already well-known travel hotspots, such as the Great Wall of China, the Pyramids of Giza, or the Sydney Opera House, others may be sites you've never heard of. From churches carved into cliffsides to ancient Chinese villages to sacred rocks in the middle of the Australian outback, check out these UNESCO sites for some off-the-beaten-path travel inspiration.  

This sprawling inland delta, one of the largest in the world and especially unique due to its atypical distance from the ocean, is not only a safari hotspot but an ecological phenomenon. In addition to its distinct flooding pattern, the combination of lush wetlands and expansive plains lends to an enthralling display of biodiversity. Those hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five will certainly have a good chance at camps like andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp and andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge.

Deep within the terracotta-hued heart of the outback, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park possesses an extraordinary natural beauty that can only be found in the continent’s sparsely populated center. The park is home to the colossal monolith, Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, which sits proudly at 348 meters high and 3.6 kilometers long. Taller than the Eiffel tower, the landmark is not just an environmental marvel, but also a sacred indigenous site steeped in spiritual culture.

Tucked away in a river valley near the Northern border of Bulgaria, these strategically designed religious structures have been carved directly into the area’s towering cliffsides and date back to the 12th century. The network of churches and monasteries pose as a feat of engineering as well as a look into the religious artistry of the region, with detailed murals adorning the walls and ceilings within.

A spectacular stretch of undulating pale sand dunes and azure pools, Lençóis Maranhenses National Park appears as if it’s from another planet. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and lush jungle on the other, it’s a worthy destination for any type of outdoor lover. Spend the day lounging on the dunes or swimming in the lagoons to get the full experience.

This small but charming Italian village is known for its distinctive architectural style of cone-shaped, limestone huts. Known as trulli, the uniform buildings give the walkable town a delightful, storybook feel. An easy day trip from larger cities like Bari, guests can peruse shops and cafes, as well as a local museum during their visit. 

While Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast often garners praise from around the world, if you travel inland, you will discover a world of turquoise lakes, verdant woodlands, and gushing waterfalls. Plitvice Lakes National Park, the country’s oldest national park, consists of 16 cascading lakes, all of which are easily traversable with the help of wooden boardwalks curving throughout.  

On the west coast of France, Mont-Saint-Michel’s rich history and striking construction makes it a must-see medieval landmark. Both former religious site and fortress, the tiny walled village is crowned by a majestic Gothic abbey, which visitors can explore by following the narrow pathways to the top. Due to the area’s drastic tides, the commune becomes an island twice a day, creating a truly surreal environment that seems straight out of a fairytale. With day trip options from Paris, it’s a great addition to any French itinerary.

These vibrantly decorated churches are scattered throughout the Troodos Mountains, making for a perfect road trip opportunity. Although most appear outwardly humble, typically crafted from stone and wood, the interiors are a riot of rich pigment and meticulous design, each depicting the religious heritage of the Byzantine Empire. 

Fernando de Noronha’s pristine condition and unique geological positioning on the summit of an extinct volcano have gifted it the illustrious reputation of one of the world’s best diving destinations. Explore the striking underwater caves and canyons as you swim among sea turtles, dolphins, sharks, and schools of colorful fish. At NANNAI Noronha you can experience the tropical allure and environmental preservation firsthand, with an added touch of luxury. 

A time capsule of Chinese history, the Old Town of Lijiang has maintained its authentic allure, with timber framed dwellings and ancient waterways reminiscent of centuries past. Because of its long-lasting importance and prime positioning on a major trade route, the village has become a fusion of dynasties and culture, making for an intriguing lesson on Chinese heritage. But despite its historical origin, Lijiang still offers plenty to see and do, from bustling marketplaces to hidden alleyways to restaurants serving authentic fare.