Iconic City Squares Around The World Saint Peter's Square, Vatican City, Italy
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12 Iconic City Squares Around the World To Visit Once in Your Lifetime

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City squares are not just open spaces in urban areas; they are often the heart and soul of a city, representing its history, culture, and identity. They are usually surrounded by some of the city’s best architectural marvels and have witnessed much history. 

History and architecture aside, city squares are one of the best places to catch a coffee, sample street foods, or interact with locals. They are often lined with charming cafes and eateries serving locals and tourists.

Furthermore, these squares also serve as gathering places where people come together to celebrate, protest, and interact. Your trip to a city is never complete without stopping by its city squares. 

Looking for the best squares to add to your must-see spots? These squares around the world have so much to offer. From the bustling Times Square in New York City to the history-filled Saint Peter’s Square in Vatican City, these iconic squares around the world will make your trip more worthwhile and immersive. 

Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy

Iconic City Squares Around The World Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy
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Piazza San Marco, in the heart of Venice, dates back to the 12th century. It has been the center of Venetian social, religious, and political life for centuries. The plaza is surrounded by architectural marvels such as St. Mark’s Basilica, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, and the Doge’s Palace, showcasing Venetian Gothic style.

Visitors can enjoy cultural events like the Venice Carnival and listen to orchestras playing in cafes while savoring traditional Italian cuisine.

Travel Tips

  • St. Mark’s Basilica Entry Fee: Entry to the main part of St. Mark’s Basilica is free, but there are fees for specific areas like the museum and the Pala d’Oro.
  • Doge’s Palace Entry Fee: The entry fee to the Doge’s Palace starts at EUR 25 (USD 26). This ticket includes access to the palace, the Museo Correr, and the National Archaeological Museum.

Read also: Iconic Places Around the World

Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic

Iconic City Squares Around The World Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic
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Prague’s Old Town Square exudes medieval charm. It features cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Astronomical Clock dating back to the 15th century. Every hour, crowds gather to witness the mechanical spectacle of the Astronomical Clock, which is soaked in so much history and mystery. 

In addition, this square hosts vibrant festivals and markets throughout the year. It is a perfect spot to buy handicrafts, feast on delicious street food, and sample local wine.

Travel Tips

  • Astronomical Clock Viewing: The Astronomical Clock puts on a mechanical show every hour from 8 AM to 11 PM. The show is free and lasts about a minute, offering a glimpse into Prague’s rich history.
  • Old Town Hall Tower Entry Fee: For a panoramic view of Prague, visit the Old Town Hall Tower. The entry fee is CZK 300 (USD 12). The tower offers an elevator for convenience, and the views from the top are breathtaking, especially at sunset.

Read also: Most Beautiful Cities in the World

Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium

Iconic City Squares Around The World Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium
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Belgium’s Grand Place is not your ordinary city plaza, with buildings dating to the 14th century. Grand Place is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture, featuring guild halls with intricate facades and gilded statues. 

Every two years, Grand Place transforms into a sea of colors during the Flower Carpet event, where thousands of flowers are arranged into intricate designs. While any time is a great time to explore this square, doing it during the Flower Carpet event would be an unforgettable memory. 

That aside, tourists can indulge in Belgian delicacies like waffles, fries, and chocolate from the numerous cafes and chocolatiers surrounding the square.

Travel Tips

  • Guild Hall Tours: Some guild halls around the Grand Place offer tours. The Museum of the City of Brussels, located in the King’s House, is worth a visit and has an entry fee of EUR 10 (USD 10.40). Allocate an hour to explore the exhibitions and learn more about the city’s history.
  • Evening Light Show: During the evening, Grand Place often features a light and sound show. It’s a free and magical experience that showcases the beauty of the square’s architecture. Check the local schedule for showtimes, and arrive a bit early to secure a good viewing spot.

Read also: Must Visit Cities Around the World

Red Square, Moscow, Russia

Iconic City Squares Around The World Red Square, Moscow, Russia
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Red Square is a symbol of Russian history and identity. It has witnessed significant events such as coronations, military parades, and political demonstrations. Besides, the square is bordered by striking architectural gems, most notably the colorful onion domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum. These visually stunning structures symbolize Russia’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Red Square hosts various festivals and celebrations, including Victory Day parades and the famous New Year’s Eve fireworks.

Travel Tips

  • St. Basil’s Cathedral Entry Fee: The entry fee to St. Basil’s Cathedral is approximately RUB 700 (USD 7), and it’s open from 11 AM to 5 PM. This fee allows you to explore the interior and admire the stunning frescoes and architecture.
  • Lenin’s Mausoleum Visiting Hours: Lenin’s Mausoleum is free to enter, but it has limited visiting hours, typically from 10 AM to 1 PM on certain days. Check the schedule in advance, as it can change due to official events.

Read also: Beautiful Small Towns Around the World

Dam Square, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Iconic City Squares Around The World Dam Square, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Dam Square is the beating heart of Amsterdam. It is surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace and the National Monument. The Royal Palace, originally built as a city hall in the 17th century, is now used for royal receptions and state visits, and it’s open to the public when not in use.

The street performers, bustling cafes, and vibrant nightlife make this square even more vibrant, making it a must-see in Amsterdam. 

Travel Tips

  • Royal Palace Entry Fee: The entry fee to the Royal Palace is EUR 12.50 (USD 13). It’s open to the public when not used for official events, so check the schedule in advance.
  • National Monument Viewing: The National Monument is free to visit and serves as a powerful tribute to the victims of World War II.

Read also: Must-Visit Cities in Europe

Djemaa el Fna, Marrakech, Morocco

Iconic City Squares Around The World Djemaa el Fna, Marrakech, Morocco
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Djemaa el Fna is a bustling square in the heart of Marrakech, known for its vibrant atmosphere and exotic charm. Surrounding the square are antique souks where visitors buy spices, textiles, and traditional Moroccan crafts. This destination also attracts tourists looking to sample delicious Moroccan street food like tagine and couscous.

As the sun sets, the square transforms into an open-air theater with storytellers, snake charmers, and musicians entertaining the crowds late into the night.

Travel Tips

  • Navigating the Souks: When exploring the souks around Djemaa el Fna, be prepared to haggle. It’s a common practice, and starting at about half the asking price is a good rule of thumb.
  • Safety and Awareness: Djemaa el Fna can get very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.

Read also: Instagrammable Places in Europe

Times Square, New York City, USA

Iconic City Squares Around The World Times Square, New York City, USA
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Times Square, often called “The Crossroads of the World,” is a vibrant hub of activity in the heart of New York City. It is renowned for its dazzling billboards, Broadway theaters, and bustling crowds, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

Here, visitors can catch world-class performances of hit musicals and plays at theaters like the New Amsterdam Theatre and the Lyceum Theatre. Moreover, this square has many shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. From flagship stores like M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World to upscale eateries and street food vendors, Times Square is a paradise for shoppers and foodies.

Travel Tips

  • Navigating Crowds: Times Square can be overwhelming due to the crowds. If you’re meeting someone, choose a specific landmark, like the red steps above the TKTS booth, as a meeting point.
  • Shopping at Flagship Stores: Visit flagship stores like M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World for unique souvenirs. These stores are open late, often until midnight.

Read also: Must-Visit US Cities

Place de la Concorde, Paris, France

Iconic City Squares Around The World Place de la Concorde, Paris, France
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Place de la Concorde is one of the most iconic squares in Paris. Originally designed in the 18th century as a monument to King Louis XV, it became the site of significant events during the French Revolution.

At the center of the square stands the Obelisk of Luxor, a gift from Egypt to France in the 19th century. Two monumental fountains flank it and offer stunning views of iconic landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower.

Surrounding the square are beautifully manicured gardens and promenades, perfect for strolls and picnics.

Travel Tips

  • Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower Views: From Place de la Concorde, you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. Use this vantage point to plan your next stops or simply enjoy the iconic Parisian skyline.
  • Obelisk of Luxor Viewing: The Obelisk of Luxor is free to view and stands prominently in the center of Place de la Concorde. Take some time to admire the hieroglyphics and learn about its history as a gift from Egypt.

Read also: Budget-Friendly European Cities

Saint Peter’s Square, Vatican City, Italy

Iconic City Squares Around The World Saint Peter's Square, Vatican City, Italy
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Saint Peter’s Square is among the world’s most sacred and awe-inspiring plazas. It serves as the spiritual and ceremonial center of the Catholic Church and is often the site of papal audiences and ceremonies.

The square is famous for its stunning arcade, designed by the renowned architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini. 

Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica, climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Rome, and visit the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.

Travel Tips

  • St. Peter’s Basilica Entry: Entry to St. Peter’s Basilica is free, but be prepared for security checks and dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Explore the stunning interior and admire Michelangelo’s Pietà.
  • Climbing the Dome Fee: To climb to the top of St. Peter’s Dome, the fee is EUR 10 (USD 10.40) if you take the elevator partway and then climb the remaining 320 steps, or EUR 8 (USD 8.30) if you climb all 551 steps.

Read also: Iconic Places in the World

Naqsh-E Jahan Square, Esfahan, Iran

Iconic City Squares Around The World Naqsh-E Jahan Square, Esfahan, Iran
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Naqsh-e Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest city squares in the world. It dates back to the Safavid dynasty and is renowned for its stunning architecture and urban planning.

Architectural masterpieces surround this square, including the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace. These magnificent buildings showcase exquisite tilework, intricate mosaics, and soaring domes, typical of Persia’s golden age’s artistic and cultural achievements.

Surrounding the square are bustling bazaars and caravanserais, where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, carpets, and spices.

Travel Tips

  • Imam Mosque Entry Fee: The entry fee to the Imam Mosque is USD 1. This mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, so allocate at least an hour to explore its stunning tilework and grand courtyard.
  • Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque Entry Fee: Visiting Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque costs USD 1. Known for its unique architecture and beautiful dome, this mosque is smaller but equally impressive.

Read also: Visa-Free Asian Destinations

Main Market Square, Krakow, Poland

Iconic City Squares Around The World Main Market Square, Krakow, Poland
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Main Market Square, in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It has been the center of the city’s life for over 700 years. Surrounding it are historic buildings, churches, and monuments. Beneath the square lies the Rynek Underground Museum, where visitors can explore the remains of medieval Krakow and learn about the city’s rich history through interactive exhibits and archaeological discoveries.

That aside, Main Market Square is a hub of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Krakow Film Festival. Visitors can also sample traditional Polish cuisine at this square.

Travel Tips

  • Rynek Underground Museum Entry Fee: The entry fee to the Rynek Underground Museum is USD 45, and it’s open from 10 AM to 7 PM. It’s a fascinating way to explore Krakow’s medieval history through interactive exhibits.
  • Exploring Historic Buildings: Spend time exploring the historic buildings around the square, such as St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall. Entry to St. Mary’s Basilica is about USD 3.70, and it’s open from 11:30 AM to 6 PM.

Read also: Best Europe City Breaks

Place des Vosges, Paris, France

Iconic City Squares Around The World Place des Vosges, Paris, France
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This square in Paris is renowned for its symmetrical architecture, featuring elegant red-brick buildings adorned with arched arcades and slate roofs. The square holds significant historical importance, as it was once the site of the royal residence of King Henry IV. Today, visitors can explore the Maison de Victor Hugo, where the famous author lived for many years and wrote some of his most beloved works.

Place des Vosges is also home to art galleries, antique shops, and charming cafes, making it a favorite spot for artists and intellectuals. Visitors can sip coffee at outdoor terraces and soak in the timeless beauty of this enchanting square.

Travel Tips

  • Maison de Victor Hugo Entry Fee: The entry to Maison de Victor Hugo is free, but there may be a small fee for temporary exhibitions. Check for any special events or guided tours that might enhance your visit.
  • Exploring Art Galleries: Spend time visiting the art galleries around Place des Vosges. Many galleries offer free entry and showcase a variety of contemporary and classic art.

Read also: Beautiful Small Towns Around the World

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