Top Historical Places to Visit Around The World

There have been numerous historical events that have led to a popularity in visiting the sites linked to where these events have taken place. Although most of the top historical places to visit have actually played a part in or after a historical event, some have become part of history just because they exist. If travelling, sightseeing and history is your thing then why not check out some of the top places to visit around the world. 

Here in no particular order are some of the top historical places around the world to visit with your camera. 

Mount Rushmore - Keystone, South Dakota, United States of America

• Website: NPS.Gov 
• Opening Hours: 20th March -30th  September 5am till 11pm, 1st October - 19th March 5am till 8pm 
• Price: Free 

Go and see four of the U.S’ most famous presidents, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln carved into a mountain. Not only can you get up close to the sculpture itself but also learn about why and how it was built. While there, take the trails which not only lead you to the sculpture, but also see what wildlife the national park has to offer. 

Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

• Website: Eiffel Tour, Paris 
• Opening Times: Mid June - early September 9 am. - 12am, early September - mid June  9.30am - 11pm 
• Prices: Adult - €15, 12years -24years - €13.50, 4years-11years / disabled - €10.50

The Eiffel Tower is the most famous landmark in Paris and was built to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the French revolution. Climb to the top of the tower  (if you dare) or catch the lift and experience the views of one of the most famous cities in the world. Walk around the top of the tower and see if you can spot the other famous landmarks of Paris. While you are up there, why not pop into one of the shops or restaurants?

Photo by David Clapp - www.davidclapp.co.uk

Fort Denison, Sydney, Australia

• Website: National Parks 
• Opening Times: 10am - 4pm   
• Prices: Varies depending on packages / tours. 

Fort Denison can be found on a small island near Sydney Harbour. Originally, the aboriginals considered it to be a small rocky island used for fishing by the tribes, but eventually it became a place in which prisoners were held. It also played a role in World War II when it came under friendly fire from the Americans. Take the ferry to the island to visit the fort and while you are there, enjoy the 360 degree breathtaking views of Sydney including the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. If you decide to go, ensure you get there for 1pm to witness the firing of the 1pm cannon. 

 Forbidden City, Beijing, China

• Website: DPM.Org
• Opening Times: 1 April – 31 October: 8.30am - 5pm, 1 November – 31 March: 8.30am -4.30pm  
• Prices:  1 April – 31 October: 60 Yuan, 1 November – 31 March: 40 Yuan

Note: No photographs to be taken inside halls with original interior decoration.

The Forbidden City which was once the imperial Palace and was used to house the emperors of China. Now it has been turned into the palace museum in which visitors from all over the world can witness the history that surrounds it. With its traditional Chinese architecture, this is one place to visit with your camera. 

The Vatican City, Rome, Italy

• Website: Vatican
• Opening times: Monday - Saturday 9am - 6pm 
• Prices: Museums - Adult €16, Child/student €8 

Note: No photography or filming is permitted in the Sistine Chapel.

Visit the city in which the Pope lives. The Vatican city is one of the smallest cities within Rome with history pouring out of its walls. With many things to see here including the Sistine Chapel, St Peters Basilica and the Vatican museums, you will be spoilt for choice. You will be surrounded by history and beautiful landscapes belonging to this old city.

Photo by David Clapp - www.davidclapp.co.uk

Victoria Falls, Zambia, Africa

• Website: Zambia Tourism
• Opening Times: Open all the time
• Price: Free

Victoria Falls located in Zambia offers some of the most breathtaking views. It is known as the most famous curtain of falling water in the world. Visiting the falls will be a once in a lifetime experience. While there you can also swim below the falls, fly above the falls and in the drier months try and walk the lip of the falls and experience what is known as the Victoria Falls Devil's Pool.

The Great Pyramids of Giza, Egypt 

• Website: Egypt  
• Opening Times: 1 May - 29 June 7am - 7pm, 30 June - 30 April 8am - 5pm
• Prices: £4.21 (50LE) , Students £2.11 (25LE) 

Note: Due to recent events, there are currently guidelines in-place set by the UK Foreign Office in regards to travelling to this area. The Foreign Office recommends you read the travel advice issued before making any decisions on travelling to this part of the world. 

Cameras cannot be taken inside the pyramids.

Whether interested in the historical aspects of the pyramids or just amazing landscapes, the pyramids are one to see. The pyramids are probably one of the most famous landmarks in Egyptian history, with many children learning about them in school. With the mystery of why and how they were built surrounding them, get caught up in the history of the pyramids in what was once used as tombs for the pharaohs of Egypt. Whilst there, also take a look at the Sphinx and the New Kingdom temple.

Photo by David Clapp - www.davidclapp.co.uk

Article by Giorgina Parker.