Top 10 Most Recognizable Landmarks in the World

No matter how advanced our cities and technology is, eventually we get tired of all the noise, stress and crowd of the city and want to be in the nature.

Humans have transformed Earth beyond recovery, but luckily not everything is lost yet. Beautiful mountains, blue water lakes, magnificent oceans with fabulous islands – our planet has many breathtaking places and awe-inspiring sceneries just waiting for you to discover them.

However, life is short, and the funds are limited, so we have to narrow down the selection. Knowing that you are just another lazy panda, we’ve done it for you!

Top 10 Most Recognizable Landmarks in the World

So many beautiful places to see in the world. However, just a few are iconic. Whether it is a natural wonder or an architectural site, these famous landmarks are definitely among the most recognizable in the world. How many of them have you seen?

10. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The largest Art Deco sculpture in the world has become an icon of Rio. Not only it is impressive due to its size, but also the nature, surrounding Christ the Redeemer. The Sugarloaf Mountain, that you can reach by a cable car, is near and amazing panorama opens from the top of the hill.
Why to go there?
To visit the statue and admire the amazing cityscape.
When to go there?
Anytime, although December to March might be rainy. It is best to check the weather a few hours before planning the trip.
How to get there?
Reach the summit by tram, by car or by foot.
Read more: Christ the Redeemer

Photo by Daniel Lima

Photo by Marco Guinter Alberton

Photo by Emir Terovic

9. Mount Fuji, Honshu Island, Japan

The highest mountain in country is an active volcano. It has a cultural significance: for ages it has inspired artists and people still make pilgrimages to the mountain. It is a perfect symbol of Japan – a country, whose appreciation of nature blends incredibly well with culture and religion.
Why to go there?
A beautiful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
When to go there?
The best time to climb the mountain is from July to August.
How to get there?
Get there by train: it is 100 km from Tokyo.
Read more: Mount Fuji

Photo by Andreas Jensen

Photo by Anish Adhikari

8. Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia

The sandstone rock is a sacred site for the Native Australians, who believe that spirits of the dead live here. Climbing Uluru is a popular activity. However, the proposition to ban climbing has been considered lately. Therefore, it might be a good idea to hurry up and visit Uluru now.
Why to go there?
A must see once in Australia. Also, climb it while it is still available.
When to go there?
Anytime. Although it can be very hot during Australian summer.
How to get there?
By plane from Perth, Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane. Or drive from Alice Springs.
Read more: Uluru

Photo by Petr Marek

Photo by Unknown

7. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Built in AD 70 the arena could hold 50 000 spectators! Today the Colosseum stands as the symbol of glorious Roman Empire and the bloody gladiator fights. It is also a real treat for those interested in history and archeology.
Why to go there?
One of the most significant monuments from the Roman Empire.
When to go there?
Anytime – check for the opening hours before you go.
How to get there?
Easily accessible – it is found in the piazza del Colosseo.
Read more: The Colosseum

Photo by Ewan Tupper

Photo by Ravi S R

6. Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England

The enigmatic monument of Neolithic and Bronze Age, Stonehenge was a religious site. However, it still has many secrets and is a source of speculations about its purpose. One thing is for sure: the ancient stone structures still have a special effect on people.
Why to go there?
A well preserved historic site. Wiltshire is also a very nice place to see in addition.
When to go there?
Anytime – the place is beautiful all year round.
How to get there?
By bus or train from Salisbury.
Read more: Stonehenge

Photo by Dmitry Ovcharov

Photo by Todd Leckie

Photo by Craig Denford

5. Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, USA

The engineering wonder is a symbol of the West Coast. Besides being the most photographed bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge offers a beautiful trek. Although it is advisable not to go on a windy day.
Why to go there?
The symbol of San Francisco, that also provides a nice walk.
When to go there?
Anytime on a beautiful day. It is especially nice early in the morning.
How to get there?
Take a bus or get there by car from Lombard Street.
Read more: The Golden Gate Bridge

Photo by Dave Gordon

Photo by Olaf Krohmann

Photo by George Steinmetz

4. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

No list of the most recognizable monuments could make it without the Eiffel Tower in it. Overrated and overestimated – still the tower is a symbol of Paris, the icon of the cityscape and the best place to view the capital.
Why to go there?
See the tower, Paris panorama from the viewpoint and get your picture with it in the background.
When to go there?
Anytime – Eiffel is especially romantic in the evenings, when it gets illuminated.
How to get there?
Get there while strolling along the streets and exploring beautiful Paris.
Read more: Tour Eiffel

Photo by Imantas Boiko

Photo by John Velocci

Photo by AlexanDENG

3. Pyramids, Giza, Egypt

The majestic ancient monuments mark the glory of Ancient Egypt. Situated in the desert, on the outskirts of Cairo, the pyramids in Giza are the most popular among the tourists. The complex includes the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is the oldest and largest pyramid in the world.
Why to go there?
The pyramids of Giza are the oldest monuments of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
When to go there?
Anytime. Although May to September can be very hot.
How to get there?
From Cairo get there by bus or taxi.
Read more: Giza Pyramids

Photo by Vadim Makhorov

Photo by Lerchhartmut

Photo by Dragostesun Photography

2. Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

The white marble mausoleum is famous in the world not only for its striking beauty, but for its romantic story as well. The emperor was devastated after his wife had died in labor and commissioned to built the monument in her memory.
Why to go there?
A world famous symbol for love is truly beautiful and worth visiting once in India.
When to go there?
Anytime.
How to get there?
Get to Agra by train from the bigger cities.
Read more: Taj Mahal

Photo by Marvin Bartels

Photo by Yaman Ibrahim

Photo by Sean Yan

1. The Great Wall of China

The wall that can be seen from space, was built and rebuilt for centuries. The first walls were erected in the 7th century BC. During the Ming dynasty (1368–1644) the Wall has already become the largest military structure in the world.
Why to go there?
The most famous site in the country, that has long history and rich heritage.
When to go there?
The area has four distinct seasons. It can be really cold in winter and very hot in summer.
How to get there?
The Wall stretches for thousands of kilometers. Badaling, Juyongguan and Mutianyu are the most popular sites, that can be accessed from Beijing.
Read more: The Great Wall of China