Last updated on December 11th, 2023.
Several of my most memorable travels share a common factor: they all include visiting historic sites.
Agrigento in Sicily and the towering Chichén Itzá in Yucatan are just a handful of the remarkable experiences I’ve had.
Now, I’ve set my sights on a bigger goal: visiting some of the best UNESCO World Heritage Site Cities.
Though I’ve a few already under my belt, I’m adding 7 more to my ever-growing travel list.
At the time of writing, there are 1154 properties on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. These include cultural as well as natural sites.
These places remind us not only about our planet’s rich history, but also about how far we’ve come. We get to learn about past civilizations, rituals, traditions, and about ourselves.
Many UNESCO World Heritage Site cities are based in Europe, but there are also plenty others further afield.
What is UNESCO?
UNESCO stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It’s a specialized agency of the United Nations that, among projects, makes international cooperation agreements to secure world heritage sites.
This means that sites carrying UNESCO status in their respective countries are protected from any major changes.
What qualifies a city or monument as a UNESCO world heritage site?
The organization has certain criteria for a site or property to be included on the list. First, they must be of outstanding universal value and should also meet at least one out of 10 selection criteria.
These criteria includes properties that:
- represents a masterpiece of human creative genius
- bears a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared.
- contains superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance.
7 best UNESCO world heritage sites
Vatican City
It may be the world’s smallest country, but Vatican City is home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Vatican City is probably also the most visited, and most beautiful, UNESCO heritage site in Europe.
The city-state surrounded by Rome, is home to the Pope, as well as mind-blowing iconic art and architecture.
There are different ways on how to visit the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica — the largest religious building in the world. The Renaissance church is a result of the combined talents of Italian masters, Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, Bernini and Maderno. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Europe with 10 million visitors each year.
A double colonnade envelops the basilica, with a circular piazza in front bordered by palaces and gardens.
The tomb of St. Peter the Apostle — one of Jesus’ main apostles — is said to lie beneath the grand building. Many popes have been buried at St. Peter’s Basilica since the early Christian period. Building of the present basilica began on 18 April 1506 and was completed on 18 November 1626.
Other top attractions to see while here include the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican museums.
The Sistine Chapel is the official residence of the pope. It also serves as a place of religious papal activity and is where a new pope is selected.
Inside the chapel are some of the most popular sculptures and paintings in the world. Frescoes by Perugino and Botticelli, the chapel ceiling and The Last Judgment by Michelangelo.
Any type of photography/videography is prohibited (except for official photographers).
Where to stay in Rome
Unless you’ve received a personal invitation from the Pope himself, you’ll need somewhere to stay in Rome that’s close to Vatican City.
Hotel Martis Palace
In the Navona district of Rome is the excellent Hotel Martis Palace. Choose from a range of boutique or individually-styled rooms and suites.
Booking.comOnsite is a library, bar and restaurant. Head to the roof terrace to catch some of the best views across the eternal city. Just 50 yards from Piazza Navona, the hotel’s also close to Campo de Fiori and the Pantheon.
The Fifteen Keys Hotel
With 15 individually designed bedrooms, The Fifteen Keys Hotel is a superb boutique hotel in Rome.
Booking.comLocated in the cosmopolitan Monti district of Rome, there’s also a garden and terrace on site for guests to use. The Fifteen Keys Hotel is about 10 minutes from the Coliseum on foot, and a 4-minute walk from Cavour Metro Station.
Map: 7 best UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Salzburg historic center
When most people think of Salzburg, they think of the iconic 1965 film, The Sound of Music.
However, what many people may not realize is that Salzburg became a UNESCO member in 1997. Austria currently holds 10 world heritage site titles, the historic center of Salzburg being one of them.
The birthplace of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg is considered as the ‘Rome of the north’.
Italian architects, Vincenzo Scamozzi and Santino Solari designed many of the buildings. They followed the popular baroque architectural style of the 17th and 18th centuries.
The protected area of Salzburg old town stretches across 236 hectares and contains around 1,000 unique objects.
Highlights of historic Salzburg
Old Town of Salzburg
Heritage must-see highlights in the city include DomQuartier and Salzburg Old Town, also known as Altstadt. Medieval and baroque buildings sit side by side in this historic district surrounding the River Salzach.
Within Altstadt is the Kaiviertel district, Festungsberg hill, the Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mönchsberg mountains.
Streets and town squares, like Getreidegasse and Mozartplatz — named after its most famous native — are also notable points of interest.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
The Hohensalzburg Fortress was built in 1077 to protect the district and archbishops from outside attacks. You can reach the fortress on foot, but also by the fortress funicular, located in the Festungsgasse.
Inside are several museums, including the Marionette Museum and the Museum of the Rainer Regiment. Each showcases what life was like during the time of the prince archbishops in Salzburg.
Inside the fortress are the princes’ chambers, consisting of all the original furnishings dating to the 16th century.
Hohensalzburg fortress is accessible to all, with an elevator providing access to many areas within the site. The site regularly hosts classical music concerts, which include dinner and incredible views of the city.
Ideal for a romantic dinner, it’s one evening you’re bound to remember.
DomQuartier
The DomQuartier is another site to visit in this UNESCO heritage city. Within the complex are several notable buildings, namely the cathedral and the Benedictine St. Peter’s Abbey.
There are also 5 different Salzburg museums within the DomQuartier, with which you can enter with just a single ticket.
Highlights include state rooms of the Alte Residenz, the Residenz Gallery and the cathedral museum. A terrace above the cathedral arches offer far-reaching views of Salzburg’s baroque city center.
Where to stay in Salzburg
The Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse
Stay in the heart of Salzburg Old Town at the Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse.
Booking.comAs its name suggests, the 14th-century building has luxury — yet affordable — accommodation in a central location. All rooms come with an en-suite bathroom with a shower or a bathtub.
Enjoy the finest Austrian cuisine at hotel restaurant, Gasthof Goldgasse. They only use local produce in all their dishes, each complemented by exceptional Austrian wines.
The Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse is also within easy walking distance of major sights in Salzburg.
Hotel Schloss Mönchstein
Receive a welcome drink, fruit basket and a homemade Guglhupf cake when you arrive at Hotel Schloss Mönchstein.
Booking.comThe 5-star luxury hotel sits atop a prime location in Salzburg, the Mönchsberg hill. Rooms and suites are all individually furnished, and feature priceless antiques and marble bathrooms.
Other amenities at Hotel Schloss Mönchstein include an outdoor infinity pool, outdoor hot tub and a spa area. Inside is a steam bath, sauna, as well as a wide range of beauty and wellness treatments.
Salzburg Old Town is just 7 minutes by car or on foot from the hotel. Catch a ride on the elevator built into the mountain to reach the old town. Guests staying at the hotel receive free elevator tickets.
Historic center of Bruges
The largest city, and capital of West Flanders in the Flemish region of Belgium, is one of the best UNESCO world heritage sites.
Booking a walking tour around Bruges gives you first-hand insight into what a medieval historic settlement was like. Once a city contained within 4 walls, what remains are the gates, ramparts and one defense water tower.
The city’s retained its original streets, places and open spaces. Main roads lead towards the principle public squares, and the canals have also been preserved from medieval times.
Original Gothic buildings like the cathedral, the belfry and the churches dominate the city skyline.
Exploring Bruges
Markt is one of the top attractions to see in Bruges. The public square’s home to one of Bruges’ most important structures, the medieval bell tower, the Belfry.
It was mainly used as a lookout for spotting fires and other dangers. Today, it’s an iconic landmark in Bruges.
If you like a challenge when you travel, try your hand at climbing the 366 steps to the top.
There’s a small fee to pay, but the views from 83m (272ft) should be worth the climb. A reward for your efforts awaits at the foot of the Belfry in the form of delicious Belgian fries.
Fritterie dishes up hot, crispy frites, also known as frietkoten, and is a Bruges must-eat snack. At the side and towards the back of the tower is the former market hall.
Burg Square
Statues of 2 local heroes that resisted French oppression stand proudly in the middle of Burg square.
Bruges natives Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck played significant roles during the Battle of the Golden Spurs.
Other notable sights include the Waterhalle and the Palace of the Liberty of Bruges. The old Court of Justice is a rare example of renaissance architecture in the city.
Rozenhoedkaai
Bruges has plenty of Instagram-worthy spots, but one that tops them all is Rozenhoedkaai. Right by the canal and surrounded by traditional Belgian houses, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the city.
Personally, I’d say that Rozenhoedkaai adds to Bruges being one of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Take a boat ride around Rozenhoedkaai, or simply admire the views and snap away. Whatever you decide, Rozenhoedkaai 100% deserves a place on your Bruges itinerary.
The Flemish primitives
During the 15th and 16th century, Bruges became closely associated to the school of Flemish Primitive painting. The period, also known as early Netherlandish painting, flourished in Belgium throughout this time.
You can admire the works of Flemish Masters like Jan Van Eyck and Hans Memling on your Bruges trip. The Groeninge Museum and the Church of Our Lady are some of the places to find such masterpieces.
The brick spire of the Church of Our Lady reaches 122.3m, making it one of the tallest in the world. Inside is Michelangelo’s only sculpture to leave Italy during his lifetime: the exquisite white marble, Madonna and Child.
Where to stay in Bruges
Enjoy a luxury boutique guesthouse stay in Bruges at one of these 2 top choices.
Brugsche Suites
There are just 3 stylish suites at this authentic townhouse in the center of Bruges. Classic, luxurious and romantic, this luxury guesthouse offers private facilities and a sitting area with your very own fireplace.
Brugsche Suites is located at one of the city gates, providing its guests with great views and easy transport links.
Booking.comA full breakfast is served each morning, including a variety of breads, cheese and ham, and fresh orange juice.
B&B De Corenbloem
For adults only, B&B De Corenbloem is a 5-star luxury guesthouse in a historic townhouse in Bruges.
Booking.comRooms are furnished in period-style décor with wooden floors and high ceilings. The guesthouse is a place to completely switch off as rooms don’t have a TV.
B&B De Corenbloem is 550 yards from the Grote Markt, and a 10 minute-walk from the Groeninge Museum.
Sit down to breakfast in the dining room with an open fire, or in the orangerie with garden views.
Toledo
The city and municipality of Toledo is home to more than 2,000 years of history. An ideal day trip from Madrid, the central Spanish city is renowned for its medieval Arab, Christian and Jewish monuments.
Its impressive monuments are a product of the different civilizations and 3 major religions of the city.
Toledo was first named a historic-artistic site in 1940, before later gaining its UNESCO status in 1986.
The ‘City of Three Cultures’ has a remarkable number of historic attractions within its vicinity. Several of these include the Castillo de San Servando, El Greco Museum and the Synagogue of El Transito.
While in Toledo, also make time to visit the many ‘puertas’, which were the entrances to the walled city. Puerta de Bisagra Nueva is the main entrance, while Puerta de Bab-al-Mardum is the oldest city gate of Toledo.
Castillo de San Servando
This medieval castle sits near the banks of the Tagus River. First occupied by monks, it was later given to the Knights Templar. Their job was to protect the Puente de Alcantara from a possible Arab attack.
Fast forward to the present day and the castle, incredibly, is still standing. It was formerly used as a site for a hostel, but it has since closed.
El Greco Museum
After viewing the Castillo de San Servando, you’ll probably see it again in some paintings at El Greco Museum.
The museum celebrates the life and work of Domenikos Theotokopoulos, also known as El Greco. Originally from Crete, El Greco spent a large portion of his life in Toledo.
The museum opened in 1911, showcasing a large collection of his paintings created during the Spanish Golden Age. It consists of 2 buildings: a 16th-century house with courtyard, and an extension dating to the early 20th century.
El Greco Museum is located within the city’s Jewish Quarter. Inside, you’ll also find work by other 17th century Spanish painters, as well as furniture and pottery.
At the time of writing, ticket prices cost:
- €3 ($3.30 / £2.56) for general entry; and
- €1.50 ($1.65 / £1.29) for reduced tickets.
This also includes children. Admission is free for students, large families and retired persons.
Synagogue of El Transito
Also, in the Jewish Quarter is the Synagogue of El Transito. Built in the 14th century, the religious temple is the most important example of Spanish-Jewish art.
Decorated with elements of the Mudéjar period and floral motifs, the synagogue has inscriptions in both Arabic and Hebrew. It’s also home to the Sephardic Museum.
Where to stay in Toledo
Entre Dos Aguas Hotel Boutique
Experience Toledo in a guesthouse formerly owned by a legendary Spanish guitarist, at Entre Dos Aguas Hotel Boutique.
Booking.comIdeally located in the city center, this elegant boutique has several individually-styled rooms to welcome its guests.
El Greco Museum is 550 yards from the hotel, as is the 14th century city gate, Puerta del Sol Toledo.
Casa Palacio Rincón de la Catedral
Just a few steps from Toledo Cathedral is the Casa Palacio Rincón de la Catedral.
Booking.comOffering 3 types of accommodation (Crisol de Culturas, Montes de Toledo, Templo), this well-placed boutique hotel is a Toledo favorite.
The hotel’s 200 yards from Toledo City center and 450 yards from the Toledo Seminario. Other points of interest close to the hotel are El Greco Museum and the Palacio arzobispal.
Naples historic center
The old town of Naples is a history — and food lover’s — dream.
From the Greeks to the Romans, the Swabians to the Aragonese, Naples is a city brimming with cultural influences. A city where one day in Naples isn’t enough, it’s also one of the cheapest cities to visit in Italy.
A short drive from Naples is another renowned UNESCO site, the fascinating ruins of Pompeii. Closer to reach from Naples, Pompeii is also doable as a day trip from Rome.
The largest historic center — and one of the most ancient cities in Europe — Naples gained its UNESCO title in 1995. Its architecture, reflecting the diverse styles and periods, helped to secure the title for the city.
While many of the Ancient Greek remains no longer exist, it’s still possible to see ruins from the Roman Age. Museums and archaeological sites, including the area of San Lorenzo Maggiore, exhibit relics from its Roman past.
Monuments of historic importance in Naples — Castello dell’Ovo
Naples is home to a number of remarkable monuments, including the Castello dell’Ovo, one of 7 castles in the area.
Built during the Swabian-Norman period, Castello dell’Ovo sits atop of what was a former Roman villa. You can find the castle on Megaride Island, overlooking the glorious Bay of Naples.
In the background is Mount Vesuvius, its grand volcano overlooking the entire scene.
Piazza del Plebiscito
From the 15th to 17th centuries, Naples was governed by the Aragonese of Spain. They transformed the defense fortifications, built the royal palace, and also constructed Castel Nuovo.
The palace is one of the attractions you can see in the Piazza del Plebiscito, the public square in Naples. To the west is the grand Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, elements of which resemble the Pantheon in Rome.
Santa Chiara, Naples
The complex of Santa Chiara includes the church of its namesake, a monastery and an archaeological museum.
Dating to the 14th century, the church underwent a restoration after partially being destroyed during WWII.
King Robert of Naples is buried in the church, his tomb placed behind the main altar. Also, within the complex is the Majolica cloister and the museum.
Majolica tiles are tin-glazed pottery decorated in colors on a white background. Its stark contrast to the classic colors of the cloister makes it even more unique.
Where to stay in Naples
Artemisia Domus
This gorgeous 4-star boutique property has 4 bright and elegant suites, which are also completely soundproof. Suites come with a hot tub with chromotherapy, and there’s also a shared lounge.
Artemisia Domus is 1,000 yards from Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), while the royal palace is 0.8 miles. A continental breakfast is served each morning to start your day, and stomach, off on a full note.
Booking.comHotel Matilde — Lifestyle Hotel
In the Plebiscito district of Naples is the ultra-chic Hotel Matilde — Lifestyle Hotel.
Booking.comThere are 18 rooms at this boutique hotel in Naples, complete with air-conditioning, free WiFi, and private bathrooms.
Hotel Matilde — Lifestyle Hotel is 100 yards from San Carlo Theatre and 550 yards from Maschio Angioino.
The royal palace and Piazza Plebiscito are also close to Hotel Matilde — Lifestyle Hotel. The hotel provides a paid airport shuttle service to Naples International airport, which is 5 miles from the property.
Historic center of Lima
Lima is one of the most visited, and best UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South America. Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro, founded the historical capital city of Lima in January 1535.
It was once one of the most important cities of the Spanish dominions in South America. It was also the political, administrative, religious and economic capital of the Viceroyalty of Peru.
City of monuments
Lima became a UNESCO member in 1988 for its high concentration of historic monuments built during Spanish rule.
Ciudad de los Reyes, or City of Kings, is located in the Rimac valley. Booking a city tour of Lima will bring you to all of the top attractions, which includes the mammoth Convent of San Francisco.
The largest of its type in South America, it houses a church, convent as well as 2 chapels. Beneath the complex lies an underground network of catacombs and galleries, which is also open to visitors.
Plaza Mayor
Plaza Mayor is the main square in Lima’s historic center and it plays an important role in the city. The same name as the public square in Madrid, the history is just as fascinating.
Francisco Pizarro founded Lima in Plaza Mayor and the Act of Independence of Peru was also proclaimed here in 1821.
On top of this, Plaza Mayor is where you’ll find some of the most historic buildings in Lima. The Palace by Government, the Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace all surround the square.
Archbishop’s Palace, Lima
Home to the Archbishop of Lima, Archbishops Palace is a must-see on your city tour. The first major church began construction in 1535.
Its facade embraces a baroque architectural style, while the ceiling’s illuminated by famous French stained-glass windows. Pope Paul III turned the palace into an episcopal seat in 1541.
Torre Tagle Palace
Torre Tagle Palace is a classic example of Hispano-American baroque from buildings constructed in the 17th and 18th centuries.
The mansion belonged to the fourth and last Marquess of Torre Tagle, Don Bernardine Jose of Tagle Portocarrero. It has a carved stone cover and 2 balconies, showcasing a mix of Limean architecture and the Viceroyalty of Peru.
Today, the palace is the main headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru.
Basílica Cathedral of Lima
In the same area is the magnificent Basílica Cathedral of Lima. Construction begun on the grand church in 1535 and finished in 1649.
Its architecture style is typical of those built during the Spanish colonial era, bearing resemblance to Merida Cathedral.
Inside, is a gold-plated altar featuring images of the colonial era, and 14 side chapels. The tomb of the city’s founder, Francisco Pizarro, lays inside the cathedral.
When in Lima, make time to visit some of the lesser obvious historic monuments. The stone bridge over the Rimac river, and the Paseo de Aguas, are noteworthy sites to add to the itinerary.
Where to stay in Lima
Lima has an impressive number of boutique — and luxury — hotels that won’t break the bank.
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels
Check into this exquisite 1920s luxury townhouse in the Barranco district of Lima.
Villa Barranco by Ananay Hotels has 9 rooms available: 2 deluxe, 6 junior suites and 1 master suite. Views of the Malecon come with the deluxe rooms. For the junior and master suites, enjoy waking up to ocean and beach views.
Booking.comA continental or buffet breakfast is served at its on-site restaurant, and they also offer guests free bikes.
Larcomar shopping center is 3.2km (2 miles) from the hotel, and the Museum of the Nation is 10km (6 miles) away.
The Lot Boutique
In the Miraflores neighborhood of Lima is the chic and very intimate Lot Boutique. There are just 8 bedrooms in this converted townhouse, displaying a simple yet modern feel.
Booking.comA healthy breakfast is served each morning, and the property also includes a terrace, shared lounge and a library.
Miraflores Central Park is 900 yards from Lot Boutique hotel. Miraflores is a good spot for coastal walks and also for trying out the local gastronomy.
Historic center of Kraków
The historic center of Kraków is one of the most famous old districts in Poland.
One of the best UNESCO world heritage sites, Kraków was the former capital from 1038 until it was moved to Warsaw in 1596.
Kraków’s importance is highlighted by its perfect urban layout, and the number of monuments from various periods.
Wawel Castle is the most iconic feature in Kraków’s historic center. The former royal residence sheds light on the dynastic and political ties of medieval and early modern Europe. It combines renaissance, gothic, romanesque, and early baroque architectural styles of the period.
Kraków’s historic center on the River Vistula consists of 3 parts. They include the medieval city of Kraków, the Wawel Hill complex, and the town of Kazimierz.
Grand Square (Rynek Glowny)
On a tour of Kraków old town, you’ll find one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. Dating to 1257, Grand Square reflects the magnificent and precise medieval city planning.
At its center is Cloth Hall, a prime location for international trade in the 15th century. Today, it’s a place to browse, and maybe buy some, Polish crafts.
Like many market squares in Eastern Europe, it’s surrounded by quaint townhouses and historic churches.
Saint Mary’s Basilica, Kraków
The church of Saint Mary’s Basilica sits adjacent to the main market. It’s very hard to miss this imposing structure for 2 reasons. The first, is the trumpet signal that plays every hour from the top of the tallest of the 2 towers.
It commemorates a famous trumpeter who was killed while sounding the alarm before an impending Mongol attack on Kraków.
The second, is for its height and also for its architectural style. Saint Mary’s Basilica measures 80m (262 ft) in height and was built in the 14th century. The church is one of the finest examples of Polish Gothic architecture.
So significant is the basilica, that it was also awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1978, alongside its historic center.
Kazimierz
On a tour of the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz you’ll visit 14th-century fortifications and ancient synagogues. One of the oldest institutions, the Jagiellonian University, is also located in the southern part of town.
Visiting Kraków Old Town is liked stepping into an open-air museum. Along with the historic buildings, it’s also home to more than 2 million works of art.
It’s one of many reasons why this Polish city is one of the best UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Where to stay in Kraków
Metropolitan Boutique Hotel
With 59 rooms, including 26 Classic, 25 Superior and 8 Suites, Metropolitan Boutique Hotel is a superb Kraków choice.
Booking.comLocated next to the Jewish quarter of the city, rooms look onto a quiet cul-de-sac street or a picturesque courtyard.
The 4-star hotel also has a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant serving Polish and European cuisine.
It’s less than 0.6 miles from Kraków attractions like the Old Town and Wawel Royal Castle. On top of that, the hotel can also provide an airport shuttle service.
Amber Design Residence
I love everything about this aparthotel in Kraków. Set in a 1930’s building, Amber Design Residence is situated in a quiet street in the oldest part of Kraków.
Booking.comIt’s located next to Planty Park, which is known for its age-old trees, and is an idyllic place to walk, run or cycle. Choose from elegantly-styled rooms, suites or apartments. All come with a flat-screen TV as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
Relax in the stylish lobby with a coffee and admire the surrounding artwork.
The property’s close to Saint Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall, which are within 550 yards of the hotel.
Which of these best UNESCO World Heritage Sites would you most like to visit? Are there any others you’d like to see on the list? Give me a shout in the comments below.
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Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.
Which are the best UNESCO World Heritage Site cities to visit?
1. Vatican Cityu003cbru003e2. Salzburg historic centeru003cbru003e3. Bruges historic centeru003cbru003e4. Toldeou003cbru003e5. Naples historic centeru003cbru003e6. Historic center of Limau003cbru003e7. Historic center of Kraków
I can’t believe we were in Krakow for 4 days and didn’t get inside the castle grounds. Some lovely places on your list.
Thank you guys! You now have a reason to revisit Krakow 😀