What are the 7 Wonders of the World?

Ever wondered, “What are the 7 wonders of the world?” We’re here to clear up the confusion. Throughout history, there have been many lists of world wonders. The most famous of these is the ‘Seven Wonders of the Ancient World’. Sadly, many of these have been lost to time, and today only the Pyramids of Giza remain.

In the year 2000, a global campaign set out to determine the 7 wonders of the modern world. From an initial list of 200 candidates, 600 million people around the world cast their votes over the next seven years, narrowing it down to just seven.

The final selection became known as the New 7 Wonders, and each year they are celebrated on 7th July – ‘7 Wonders Day’. These landmarks were chosen by the people, making them a truly global selection of extraordinary sites.

What are the Seven Wonders of the World?

Spanning four continents, the Seven Wonders showcase a range of cultures, architectural styles and historic periods. The modern wonders were chosen through a public vote, while the ancient list was first compiled by Greek historians to honour the most impressive man-made structures of their era.

Machu Picchu, Peru

The legendary Machu Picchu sits 2,430 metres above sea level in Peru’s Cusco region. This ancient Inca citadel is not only the country’s most visited site, but a true bucket-list destination. Its remarkable setting and preserved architecture make it one of the great wonders of the modern world.

Since its rediscovery by Hiram Bingham in 1911, historians have debated Machu Picchu’s purpose. Was it ceremonial? A military base? A royal retreat? Whatever the truth, its 15th-century stonework and intricate layout remain astonishing to this day.

Visitors usually travel via train from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town. A visit to Machu Picchu is a step back in time, and one of the most breathtaking travel experiences imaginable.

Chichen Itza, Mexico

The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza is located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. A top day trip from nearby beach resorts, it’s both a tourist hotspot and an active archaeological site. Built between the 4th and 5th centuries, Chichen Itza quickly became a key centre of Mayan civilisation.

Its most famous landmark is El Castillo, a towering pyramid once used as a temple to the feathered serpent god Kukulcán. On the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun casts a serpent-like shadow along its staircase—an incredible testament to the Mayans’ astronomical skill.

Mystical and awe-inspiring, Chichen Itza remains a window into one of the most advanced cultures of the ancient world.

Colosseum, Italy

Rome’s mighty Colosseum is instantly recognisable and among the world’s best-preserved ancient landmarks. Completed in 80 AD, it once hosted everything from theatrical performances to brutal gladiator contests, attracting crowds of up to 50,000.

Originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, it symbolised the power and reach of the Roman Empire. Emperor Titus celebrated its completion with 100 days of games, which saw the deaths of over 2,000 gladiators.

Today, it welcomes more than 6 million visitors annually. It remains one of the most significant historical attractions in Italy and the only one of the Seven Wonders located in Europe.

Petra, Jordan

Carved into rose-coloured cliffs in the Jordanian desert, Petra was once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Between 400 BC and 106 AD, it thrived as a trade hub before falling into obscurity and later being rediscovered in the 19th century.

Today, Petra is a top tourist attraction in Jordan, with highlights including the famed Treasury, the Monastery, and the ancient Theatre. Despite decades of excavation, much of the city remains buried beneath the sand.

With its unique architecture and mysterious past, Petra continues to captivate the imagination of travellers worldwide.

Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China stretches over 20,000 km and is the largest man-made structure on Earth. Construction began as early as the 7th century BC, and over the centuries, various dynasties contributed to its expansion.

The best-preserved sections near Beijing include Jinshanling and Juyongguan. The Wall’s scale and historical significance make it one of the most iconic engineering feats in human history.

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Towering over Rio de Janeiro, Christ the Redeemer is the youngest of the Seven Wonders. Completed in 1931, the Art Deco statue of Jesus stands 30 metres tall, with arms that stretch 28 metres wide.

Crafted over nine years by several sculptors, this powerful symbol of faith has become a defining feature of Brazil’s skyline. Most visitors take a scenic cog train to the summit, where the statue rests atop an 8-metre pedestal housing a small chapel.

Taj Mahal, India

Built as a mausoleum by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal is one of the most romantic monuments ever constructed. Situated in Agra, it features stunning white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones.

The symmetry, domes and ornamental gardens reflect the highest achievements of Mughal architecture. Today, the Taj Mahal draws millions of visitors annually—and the famous ‘Princess Diana bench’ photo spot remains a firm favourite.

Bonus Wonder: Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

The only surviving structure from the original Ancient Wonders, the Great Pyramid of Giza is still a marvel more than 4,500 years after it was built. Commissioned by Pharaoh Khufu, it was the tallest human-made structure on Earth for over 3,800 years.

Its scale, precision, and alignment with celestial bodies continue to baffle scientists and archaeologists alike. It stands as a lasting tribute to the ingenuity of Ancient Egyptian civilisation.

Why visit the Seven Wonders?

These extraordinary landmarks celebrate the brilliance of human creativity and ambition. Whether ancient or modern, they offer unique insights into the civilisations that built them—and unforgettable moments for those who visit.

Experience the Wonders with Exoticca

So, which of the Seven Wonders is at the top of your bucket list? 

At Exoticca, we specialise in expertly planned tours that bring these world-famous sites to life. Our itineraries blend iconic attractions with meaningful cultural experiences, offering a deeper connection to each destination.

From flights and hotels to guided tours and excursions, we handle all the details. With our knowledgeable guides and great-value packages, you’ll travel with confidence, comfort, and curiosity.

Explore our Seven Wonders tours today and discover what makes each site so special. Your journey of a lifetime begins here.