The most visited monuments in the world | Let’s discover them

There are places in the world so iconic, so steeped in history and culture, that they’ve become symbols of entire nations or civilisations. These awe-inspiring landmarks spark our wanderlust and often feature at the top of every travel bucket list. From ancient wonders to modern marvels, standing in front of these monuments is like stepping into a moment of human history. Ready to find out which are the most visited monuments around the globe? Here are 19 unforgettable sites that capture the imagination of millions each year. Which one will you explore next?

The top 19 most visited monuments around the world

1. Notre-Dame – Paris, France

Although significantly damaged by a devastating fire in 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains an enduring icon of Gothic architecture and religious heritage in France. This architectural treasure continues to attract around 12 million visitors annually, who come to admire its flying buttresses, rose windows, and sculptural detail—even amid ongoing restoration.

2. Great Wall – China

Stretching over 21,000 kilometres from the Korean border to the Gobi Desert, the Great Wall of China is one of the world’s most extraordinary human achievements. Begun in 231 BC, it’s visited by around 9 million people annually. Popular sections like Badaling and Mutianyu offer breathtaking views and a true sense of history.

3. Sydney Opera House – Sydney, Australia

An icon of modern architecture and one of the most recognisable buildings of the 20th century, Sydney Opera House welcomes over 7 million visitors each year. Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this UNESCO World Heritage site hosts over 1,500 performances annually and remains a cultural heart of Australia.

4. Eiffel Tower – Paris, France

No visit to Paris is complete without a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower. Originally built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it now attracts around 6.7 million visitors per year. Its nightly light displays and panoramic city views make it a must-see in France.

5. Lincoln Memorial – Washington, USA

A symbol of American democracy, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. receives around 5 million visitors annually. Erected in honour of the 16th U.S. president, it was also the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

6. Colosseum – Rome, Italy

The majestic Colosseum is a window into the grandeur of the Roman Empire. This first-century amphitheatre once held 80,000 spectators and continues to draw around 5 million visitors each year. Discover it during your visit to Italy.

7. Statue of Liberty – New York, USA

A global symbol of freedom, the Statue of Liberty welcomes around 4 million people annually to Liberty Island. A gift from France to the USA, it has stood since 1886 as an emblem of hope and democracy.

8. Pyramids of Giza – Cairo, Egypt

Constructed around 2700 BC, the Pyramids of Giza are the oldest monuments on this list. Some 3 million visitors travel to Egypt each year to admire these ancient feats of engineering, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu—the last surviving wonder of the ancient world.

9. The Alhambra – Granada, Spain

The most visited monument in Spain, the Alhambra receives around 3 million visitors a year. This stunning complex of palaces and gardens offers a glimpse into the Iberian Peninsula’s Moorish past, with exquisite Islamic architecture and serene courtyards.

10. Taj Mahal – Agra, India

A monument to eternal love, the Taj Mahal was built between 1631 and 1654 by Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. Around 2.5 million people visit this breathtaking white marble mausoleum in India each year.

11. Machu Picchu – Cusco, Peru

Hidden in the Andes at nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, Machu Picchu was rediscovered in 1911 and now attracts 1.5 million annual visitors. Its astonishing dry-stone structures remain a mystery of Inca engineering and design.

12. Angkor Wat – Siem Reap, Cambodia

The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat covers over 400 acres and draws in 2.5 million visitors annually. Originally a Hindu temple, it later became Buddhist and remains a symbol of Cambodia.

13. Burj Khalifa – Dubai, UAE

The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa reaches a height of 2,717 feet. Around 2 million visitors each year ascend to its observation decks for spectacular views of Dubai and beyond.

14. Christ the Redeemer – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This 98-foot Art Deco statue of Jesus stands atop Corcovado mountain in Brazil, embracing the city of Rio. Around 2 million people visit this cultural and religious icon each year.

15. Acropolis – Athens, Greece

The Acropolis, perched above Athens, contains ancient treasures including the Parthenon. Around 3 million visitors each year walk among these ancient ruins—the cradle of democracy and classical architecture.

16. Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco, USA

Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, this 1937 suspension bridge is instantly recognisable with its orange hue and elegant design. Around 10 million people walk, drive or cycle across its span annually.

17. Forbidden City – Beijing, China

Once home to Chinese emperors, the Forbidden City is a vast complex of 980 buildings in central Beijing. It draws approximately 15 million visitors a year who come to admire the grandeur of imperial China.

18. Sagrada Família – Barcelona, Spain

Antoni Gaudí’s iconic basilica, still under construction since 1882, attracts 4.5 million visitors annually. Its colourful stained glass and surreal architecture make it one of the most distinctive religious buildings in the world.

19. St. Peter’s Basilica – Vatican City

The largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City is the heart of the Catholic Church. Around 10 million pilgrims and tourists visit this spiritual and architectural marvel every year.

Ready to visit one of these incredible monuments?

Which of these extraordinary landmarks have you ticked off your list? And which ones are next?

At Exoticca, we specialise in curated holiday packages that include visits to many of the world’s most iconic sites. Whether you’re dreaming of wandering through ancient ruins or gazing at soaring skyscrapers, we’re here to help you turn those travel dreams into unforgettable adventures.