24 Landmarks in Europe To Visit in Your Lifetime
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Europe is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking and historically significant landmarks. From charming castles to breathtaking cathedrals, ancient ruins, and architectural symbols, these landmarks have captivated travelers and inspired awe for centuries.
Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates beauty, visiting these landmarks should be on your bucket list. They offer insight into their location’s cultural heritage and allow tourists to go down memory lane.
If you plan a trip across Europe, missing these landmarks would be inexcusable. If you have to choose a few spots to explore in Europe, maybe because of time, let it be these landmarks.
Colosseum – Rome, Italy
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The Colosseum in Rome symbolizes the grandeur and might of ancient Rome. This iconic amphitheater, built in the first century AD, once hosted contests, staged performances, and other spectacles to entertain the masses.
Despite its age, it is the largest amphitheater ever built. Its exterior is perfect for admiring its imposing structure, intricate arches, and massive columns. Take photos from different viewpoints, or take a guided tour of its interior for a more historical account.
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Acropolis – Athens, Greece
The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above Athens, Greece. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world and a symbol of the glory of ancient Greek civilization. The Acropolis is adorned with several ancient buildings of great architectural and historical significance, the most famous of which is the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, the patron deity of Athens.
Visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Athens and the surrounding landscape from the top of the Acropolis.
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Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
Paris is known for its romantic ambiance, and the Eiffel Tower is a landmark that only exemplifies the charming atmosphere. It is an iconic landmark that all globetrotters should see at least once, preferably severally, in their lifetime.
Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, this iron lattice tower has captivated visitors with its timeless beauty and magnificence. Whether you admire the Eiffel Tower from afar or ascend to its uppermost observation deck, the experience is nothing short of magical. Book a ticket to its observation deck and witness the City of Light spread out in splendor, or take a cruise on the Seine for close-up and charming views.
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Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain
Antoni Gaudi’s architectural gem, Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, is a seamless blend of colors, shapes, and symbols that defy conventional norms. The basilica, which has been in construction since 1882, showcases Gaudi’s architectural genius, which was clearly ahead of its time.
From the intricate facades adorned with biblical motifs to the towering spires that pierce high into the skies, the Sagrada Familia is a work of art transcending time and space. Get tickets to go inside, take amazing photos from the charming Placa de Gaudi Square, or enjoy incredible panoramic views from several rooftop hotels in the city.
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Doge’s Palace – Venice, Italy
Nestled along the scenic Grand Canal in Venice, Doge’s Palace is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture that every history and architectural enthusiast needs to add to their bucket list.
This opulent palace, built in 1340, was once the seat of power for the Doge, the ruler of Venice, and served as the center of government and administration.
A noteworthy highlight of this landmark is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the nearby prison and offers panoramic views of Venice. When visiting, take time to admire the intricate marble facade, elegant arches, and decorative motifs of this palace.
Doge’s Palace is also home to an extensive art collection, including works by renowned Venetian painters such as Tintoretto, Veronese, and Titian.
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Belem Tower – Lisbon, Portugal
Perched on the banks of the Tagus River, Belem Tower in Lisbon is a maritime marvel that dates back to Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Built in the early 16th century as a defensive fortress and navigational aid, this UNESCO World Heritage site blends Moorish, Manueline, and Gothic architectural styles. The tower’s intricate carvings, maritime motifs, and commanding presence make it a must-see for anyone traveling across Europe.
Explore its interior, including various chambers, halls, and winding staircases, and enjoy panoramic views of the river and the surrounding landscape from its rooftop terrace.
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Grand Place, Brussels, Belgium
There are so many reasons to add the Grand Place in Brussels to your bucket list, including its grandeur, rich history, perfect blend of architectural designs, and cultural significance. The Grand Place was bombarded by Louis XIV’s troops in 1695. Still, it was restored, ensuring it maintains its original historical and architectural allure, attracting visitors worldwide.
While the Grand Place is a city square surrounded by several architectural jewels, the most popular one is the Hotel de Ville (City Hall), perfectly showcasing the Brabant Gothic architectural style. Other notable landmarks on the square include the King’s House, which houses the City Museum.
It is a great place to enjoy a picturesque atmosphere, explore several remarkable buildings at once, and immerse yourself in various iconic architectural styles.
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Cologne Cathedral – Cologne, Germany
The Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a signature Cologne landmark. Construction began in 1248 but was not completed until 1880, spanning over six centuries. Its soaring twin spires, reaching heights of over 157 meters (515 feet), dominate the skyline of Cologne and make it one of the tallest churches in the world.
Further, the cathedral’s facade is adorned with intricate stone carvings, sculptures, and elaborate stained glass windows, which showcase the craftsmanship of medieval artisans.
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Buckingham Palace – London, England
Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United Kingdom and a major tourist attraction. It serves as both the official residence of the British monarch and a symbol of the British monarchy. Originally known as Buckingham House, the building was constructed in the early 18th century for the Duke of Buckingham.
One of the highlights of visiting Buckingham Palace is witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a traditional display of pomp and pageantry outside the palace gates. Additionally, visitors can tour the palace’s State Rooms during the summer months, gaining insight into the monarchy’s history, art collection, and royal traditions.
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Brandenburg Gate – Berlin, Germany
The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin is a significant symbol of Germany’s tumultuous history and reunification. This neoclassical gate, built in the late 18th century, has witnessed pivotal moments in German history, from Napoleon’s conquest to the fall of the Berlin Wall.
A trip to Berlin is never complete without snapping photos in front of the Brandenburg Gate or climbing the gate’s observation tower for panoramic city views.
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Tower of London – London, England
The Tower of London, a historic castle on the banks of the River Thames, is one of the living chronicles of England’s monarchy and an intriguing past. With over 1,000 years of history, this UNESCO World Heritage site has served various purposes, including as a royal palace, fortress, prison, and treasury.
One of the most famous features of this landmark is the White Tower, which gives the entire complex its name. This massive stone served as a royal residence and a symbol of power and dominance.
For an immersive experience, explore its interior, which houses displays of arms and armor and the Royal Armouries collection.
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Charles Bridge – Prague, Czechia
The Charles Bridge is a historic bridge spanning the Vltava River in Prague, Czechia, and it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Named after King Charles IV, who commissioned its construction in the 14th century, the bridge is renowned for its stunning architecture, picturesque views, and rich history. It was originally built to replace an older bridge that floods had swept away, and it quickly became a symbol of Prague’s cultural heritage.
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The Charles Bridge has 30 statues, most added during the 17th and 18th centuries. These statues depict various saints, religious figures, and historical personalities.
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Arc de Triomphe – Paris, France
The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch located in the heart of Paris, France, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to commemorate his military victories, the arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris and a symbol of French national identity.
Climb to the top of the arch for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum.
Besides its architectural and historical significance, Arc de Triomphe is also the site of various national ceremonies and events, including military parades, state funerals, and Bastille Day celebrations.
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Leaning Tower of Pisa – Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa continues to captivate visitors with its architectural wonder. Constructed for about 199 years, from the 12th to the 14th centuries, the tower is famous for its distinctive tilt caused by an unstable foundation.
Although a freestanding bell tower, it is part of the larger complex known as the Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), which also includes the Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa) and the Pisa Baptistry (Battistero di San Giovanni).
For a more immersive experience, go beyond taking photos “holding up” the leaning tower of Pisa. Climb its 294 steps to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Pisa and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
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Edinburgh Castle – Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress atop Castle Rock, a volcanic rock formation in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. This castle has played a significant role in Scottish history for centuries, serving as a royal residence, military stronghold, and center of power. Its strategic location atop Castle Rock made it an ideal defensive position, allowing it to withstand numerous battles throughout its long history.
Among Edinburgh Castle’s most famous features are the Crown Jewels of Scotland, which are housed in the Crown Room and include the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State, among other priceless artifacts.
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Atomium – Brussels, Belgium
Built for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, the Atomium is a great example of modern architectural marvels. Designed by engineer André Waterkeyn and architects André and Jean Polak, it represents a magnified iron crystal with nine interconnected spheres connected by tubular corridors. The structure is made of stainless steel-clad aluminum and stands at 335 feet (102 meters).
Each of its spheres houses exhibition spaces, including a permanent exhibition dedicated to the history and significance of the Atomium itself and temporary exhibits focusing on science, technology, and innovation.
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Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – Florence, Italy
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a perfect place to experience the magnificence of Renaissance architecture and art. Construction began in 1296, and it was designed by several renowned architects, including Arnolfo di Cambio, Filippo Brunelleschi, and Giotto di Bondone. The cathedral’s most notable feature is its massive dome, which Brunelleschi designed.
The dome, which spans 148 feet (45 meters) in diameter, was an engineering marvel of its time and remains the largest brick dome ever constructed. Hang out at the Piazza Del Duomo (cathedral square) as you marvel at the beautiful artistic walls of the cathedral. Then, climb the narrow staircase to the top of the dome for panoramic views of Florence.
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Duomo – Milan, Italy
Milan’s Duomo is a significant landmark to appreciate the city’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. It is one of the largest churches in the world and took nearly six centuries to complete. The cathedral is built entirely of marble and features a stunning facade with spires, statues, and stained glass windows. Its most prominent feature is the elaborate Gothic-style spires that adorn the rooftop, offering panoramic views of Milan.
While taking photos in front of the cathedral is a good enough activity, consider going inside, a treasure trove of art and sculpture, including altars and intricate carvings.
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Notre-Dame Cathedral – Paris, France
Construction of Notre Dame in Paris began in 1163 under the direction of Bishop Maurice de Sully and continued for nearly two centuries until its completion in 1345. Its interior has a vast nave, towering columns, and beautiful stained-glass windows. It’s also home to numerous religious artifacts and artworks, including the Crown of Thorns and the statue of the Virgin Mary known as Notre Dame de Paris.
This cathedral has inspired numerous works of film and literature, most notably Victor Hugo’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” which further adds to its allure.
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Trevi Fountain – Rome, Italy
Designed by the Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed in 1762, the Trevi Fountain in Rome is situated at the junction of three roads (tre vie), from which it derives its name. The centerpiece of the Trevi Fountain is a majestic sculpture of Oceanus, the ancient Roman god of the sea, riding a chariot pulled by sea horses (hippocampus) and accompanied by tritons.
Come ready with coins to be tossed into the Trevi Fountain. This tradition, practiced for centuries, is believed to be a ticket to ensure you return to Rome.
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St. Peter’s Basilica – Vatican City, Rome
A visit to St. Peter’s Basilica offers a profound and awe-inspiring journey through centuries of Christian faith and devotion. It is one of the largest churches in the world, serving as a pilgrimage site for Catholics and a symbol of the Catholic Church’s spiritual heritage. The basilica is built on the site where St. Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ and the first pope, is believed to have been buried.
Tourists flock to St. Peter’s Basilica to attend a papal audience or for a Mass conducted by the Pope, especially during significant religious events or holidays like Christmas and Easter.
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Roman Forum – Athens, Greece
Throughout its history, the Roman Forum in Athens was the site of various important government buildings, temples, and monuments. It housed the Senate House (Curia), the Temple of Saturn, the Temple of Vesta, and the Arch of Titus, among others. It was also a bustling marketplace and gathering place for public events, ceremonies, and speeches.
Today, the Roman Forum is an archaeological site and open-air museum. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient structures and learn about ancient Rome’s daily life, politics, and culture. In addition, its impressive ruins and scenic setting offer ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
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Big Ben – London, England
Contrary to popular belief, Big Ben is not the name of the clock tower itself but rather refers to the clock’s largest bell housed within the citadel. Its official name is the Elizabeth Tower, and it is part of the Palace of Westminster, which serves as the meeting place of the British Parliament.
As a popular tourist attraction, it draws millions of visitors each year who admire its architecture, learn about its history, and listen to its distinctive chimes.
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The Palace of Versailles – Versailles, France
Originally built as a hunting lodge in the 17th century, The Palace of Versailles was transformed into a magnificent palace by King Louis XIV, who sought to establish Versailles as the center of political power in France. While the palace is massive, explore and take photos in the Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces), a breathtaking gallery adorned with 17 mirrored arches and magnificent chandeliers.
Further, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by breathtaking gardens spanning over 800 hectares, adorned with fountains, sculptures, and landscaped lawns. Visitors can explore the gardens on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. If you have been looking for a perfect day trip from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is it.
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