The world’s most famous landmarks include the Eiffel Tower, Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, Colosseum, Taj Mahal, Statue of Liberty, Pyramids of Giza, Sydney Opera House, Petra, and Christ the Redeemer.
These sites draw hundreds of millions of visitors every year because they represent human achievement, ancient history, and cultural identity.
Our team at WakaAbuja has visited each one, and below we share honest tips, costs, and hidden pitfalls to help you plan smarter.
Jump to: Eiffel Tower | Great Wall | Machu Picchu | Colosseum | Taj Mahal | Statue of Liberty | Pyramids of Giza | Sydney Opera House | Petra | Christ the Redeemer | FAQ
Key takeaways
- Book skip-the-line tickets for the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum through GetYourGuide to avoid 2+ hour queues.
- The Great Wall is not one single wall. The Mutianyu section is less crowded than Badaling and has a toboggan ride down.
- Machu Picchu requires advance permits. We recommend using Expedia for flight+hotel packages to Cusco.
- Visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise on a weekday. Friday it is closed for prayer.
- For the Statue of Liberty, ferry tickets sell out weeks in advance. TripAdvisor has reliable tour combos with Ellis Island.
- Always carry cash in Egypt for camel rides near the Pyramids of Giza. Card machines often fail.
- Petra’s Treasury is stunning, but the real magic is hiking to the Monastery. Start at 6 a.m. to beat the sun.
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1. Eiffel Tower, Paris: The Iron Lady That Never Sleeps
Paris’s Eiffel Tower gets nearly 7 million visitors a year. When Fatima, our Lagos correspondent, visited early this year, she expected romance. Instead, she found endless lines and a surprisingly good crepe stand at the base.
“The view from the second floor is better than the top because you still see the city’s rooftops,” she told me. The tower sparkles with golden lights every evening on the hour for five minutes. That moment alone justifies the crowd hassle.
Fatima’s honest take: “The lift queue took 90 minutes even with a prepaid ticket. Next time, I will take the stairs to the first two levels—cheaper and no wait.”
Pros
- Unbeatable night illumination and central Paris location.
- Multiple ticket options (stairs, lift, summit access).
- Picnic-friendly Champ de Mars lawn below.
Cons
- Extreme queues, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Pickpocket activity in crowded areas. Keep bags zipped.
- Elevator to the summit is often sold out.
Best for: First-time visitors to Paris, couples, and photographers who love golden hour shots.
Book your Eiffel Tower elevator tickets officially at toureiffel.paris. For nearby hotels, compare deals on Booking.com.
2. Great Wall of China: The Dragon’s Spine
Stretching over 13,000 miles, the Great Wall is not one structure but many. Our team member Amara hiked the Mutianyu section last spring. She says the wall is steeper than any staircase in Abuja.
“I counted 300 steps before I stopped counting,” she laughed. The restored sections feel like a theme park, but walk 15 minutes away from the cable car and you will find original, crumbling watchtowers with no one else around.
Amara’s honest take: “Do not wear flip-flops. I saw a tourist slide down a stone ramp. Also, the toboggan ride down Mutianyu is worth every yuan.”
Pros
- Immense historical significance and breathtaking mountain views.
- Different sections for different fitness levels (Badaling is easiest).
- Fewer crowds on weekdays at Jinshanling or Simatai.
Cons
- Distance from Beijing (1.5 to 2.5 hours by car).
- Some sections have aggressive souvenir vendors.
- Restrooms can be basic, especially in older sections.
Best for: History buffs, hikers, and travelers who want to step back in time.
Arrange a private driver or join a group tour via GetYourGuide. For accommodation in Beijing, Agoda often has deals near the city center.
3. Machu Picchu: The Lost City of the Incas
High in the Andes, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of dry-stone construction. I (Chidi) flew from Lima to Cusco and took the train to Aguas Calientes. The altitude hit me hard—headache and shortness of breath.
But when the morning fog lifted over the citadel, I forgot every discomfort. The site limits visitors to 2,500 per day, so you must book weeks, sometimes months, ahead.
Chidi’s honest take: “The classic postcard shot is from the Guardhouse. But hike the short trail to the Inca Bridge for a less crowded, equally dramatic view.”
Pros
- Spiritual atmosphere and jaw-dropping mountain setting.
- Well-preserved agricultural and religious structures.
- Option to hike Huayna Picchu for a higher perspective.
Cons
- Expensive entry plus mandatory train or Inca Trail permits.
- Altitude sickness affects many visitors. Give yourself two days in Cusco first.
- No bathroom or food inside the ruins.
Best for: Adventure travelers, archaeology lovers, and those who can handle altitude.
Official tickets through the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Compare flight+hotel packages on Expedia to save on combined bookings.
4. Colosseum, Rome: Where Gladiators Roared
The Colosseum is nearly 2,000 years old but still dominates Rome’s skyline. Fatima visited in late summer and nearly melted. “The concrete arena floor is gone, so you see the underground chambers where animals and fighters waited,” she explained.
The audio guide is worth the extra euros. Stand on the upper tier and imagine 50,000 Romans cheering. Just watch out for gladiator impersonators asking for money after a photo.
Fatima’s honest take: “Buy the full-experience ticket that includes the arena floor and the underground. It costs more but you skip the main queue and get into restricted areas.”
Pros
- Incredible preservation of ancient Roman engineering.
- Combined ticket includes Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
- Metro stop right outside (Colosseo station).
Cons
- Scorching heat in summer months – no roof or shade.
- Very crowded between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Ticket scalpers outside can sell overpriced or fake passes.
Best for: History lovers, architecture students, and families with older children.
Book official tickets at parcocolosseo.it. Find nearby apartments on Vrbo for a more Roman stay.
5. Taj Mahal, Agra: A Monument to Love
The Taj Mahal is stunningly perfect. Our Nigeria-based traveler, Adaeze, went at dawn. “The white marble changes from pink to gold as the sun rises,” she said. But she also warned about the crowds.
By 9 a.m., it feels like a festival. The mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Inside, you cannot take photos of the cenotaphs. Security is tight—only water and small phones allowed in.
Adaeze’s honest take: “The south gate has the shortest queues. Also, hire a guide at the entrance—they know the best reflection pond angles and will keep touts away.”
Pros
- Unmatched Mughal architecture and calligraphy details.
- Night viewing on full moon nights (five days per month).
- Free shoe covers provided to protect the marble.
Cons
- Agra is polluted and chaotic. Many recommend a day trip from Delhi.
- Scams targeting tourists (fake guides, overpriced souvenirs).
- Closed on Fridays for prayers.
Best for: Romantic travelers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates symmetry.
Check official entry fees at tajmahal.gov.in. For train tickets from Delhi, use Kayak to compare options.
6. Statue of Liberty, New York: The Beacon of Freedom
Lady Liberty has greeted millions of immigrants since 1886. I took the Staten Island Ferry first for a free distant view and then paid for the pedestal ticket on a separate day.
The crown requires a separate reservation made months in advance. The climb up is narrow and hot, but peeking out from the crown feels like a rite of passage. Security at Battery Park is airport-level, so arrive early.
Chidi’s honest take: “The museum inside the pedestal is excellent. You can see the original torch and learn about the statue’s copper construction. Do not skip it.”
Pros
- Powerful symbolism and excellent Ellis Island combo.
- Audio tour is included with ferry ticket.
- Ranger-led talks add historical depth.
Cons
- Crown tickets sell out months ahead – very limited daily slots.
- Ferry can be canceled due to storms or high winds.
- Expensive compared to other NYC attractions.
Best for: American history enthusiasts, families, and first-time NYC visitors.
Reserve ferry tickets via Statue City Cruises (official vendor). Check hotel deals in Lower Manhattan on Hotels.com.
7. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: The Last Ancient Wonder
The Great Pyramid is the only remaining wonder of the ancient world. Walking around its base, you feel tiny. I paid extra to go inside the pyramid—a crouching 30-minute crawl up a narrow shaft to an empty granite chamber. Was it worth it? For the bragging rights, yes.
But the real magic is seeing all three pyramids from the panoramic viewpoint near the Pizza Hut. Yes, a Pizza Hut. Also, bargain hard for camel rides. The first quoted price was 500 Egyptian pounds; I paid 150.
Fatima’s honest take: “Do not trust anyone who says ‘it’s free’ or ‘I work for the government.’ Every friendly offer has a tip expectation. Just say ‘la, shukran’ (no, thank you) and keep walking.”
Pros
- Unfathomable age and scale. The Great Pyramid weighs 6 million tons.
- Sound and light show at night is cheesy but fun.
- The Solar Boat Museum nearby displays a reconstructed cedar ship.
Cons
- Relentless touts and vendors. Very aggressive.
- Heat and dust can be brutal from April to October.
- Limited shade and restrooms are far apart.
Best for: History purists, adventure travelers, and anyone ready to haggle.
Check entry prices at egymonuments.gov.eg. Find guided tours, including transport, on GetYourGuide.
8. Sydney Opera House: Sails on the Harbour
Unlike ancient ruins, the Sydney Opera House feels modern and alive. Our correspondent, Ifeanyi, attended a small jazz concert inside the Concert Hall. “The acoustics are unbelievable,” he said. But even if you do not book a show, the building is free to walk around. The white shell tiles shimmer in the sun.
You can take a guided backstage tour, which shows you rehearsal rooms and the green room. The tour guide told us the design was inspired by orange segments—not sails as most people think.
Ifeanyi’s honest take: “Go at sunset. The building turns pink and orange, and the harbor bridge lights up. Plus, there are fewer tourists after 6 p.m.”
Pros
- Iconic 20th-century architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status.
- Free outdoor areas with stunning harbor views.
- Wide variety of performances (opera, dance, comedy).
Cons
- Concert hall renovation was ongoing as of early this year; check updates.
- Food and drinks inside are pricey.
- Can be windy, especially on the upper terraces.
Best for: Architecture fans, performing arts lovers, and photographers.
Book performance tickets directly at sydneyoperahouse.com. Compare Circular Quay hotels on Booking.com.
9. Petra, Jordan: The Rose-Red City
Petra is carved into canyon walls. You enter through the Siq, a narrow gorge over a kilometer long. Then, suddenly, the Treasury appears through a crack in the stone. Our team member, Nneka, cried when she saw it. “It’s not a trick of photos—it really looks that rich and detailed,” she said. But the Treasury is just the start.
Over 800 more tombs, temples, and caves are spread across the site. You need at least two days to see the Monastery, which involves climbing 800 rock-cut steps.
Nneka’s honest take: “Arrive at 6 a.m. when the gates open. You will have the Siq almost to yourself. Also, wear sturdy hiking shoes—no flip-flops or sandals.”
Pros
- One of the most unique landscapes on earth.
- Night Petra experience (candlelit walk to the Treasury) is magical.
- Donkeys and camels available for hire if you are tired.
Cons
- Huge site – walking 15+ kilometers is common.
- Limited shade, carry 2 liters of water minimum.
- A Jordan Pass is required for the best value entry.
Best for: Hikers, Indiana Jones fans, and travelers seeking adventure off the beaten path.
Buy the Jordan Pass online before arrival to waive visa fees. Find Petra guesthouses on Agoda for early-morning access.
10. Christ the Redeemer, Rio: Arms Wide Open
The 30-meter statue of Jesus stands on Corcovado Mountain, overlooking Rio de Janeiro. I took the cog train up through the Tijuca Forest. The train ride itself is lovely – you see monkeys and tropical birds. At the top, the statue is bigger than you expect.
The arms stretch 28 meters wide. But the real show is the 360-degree view: Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach, and the favelas are all visible. Cloud cover can ruin it. I waited an hour for the clouds to clear, and they did for exactly 15 minutes.
Chidi’s honest take: “Do not pay for a van up the mountain. The train is part of the experience. Also, avoid Sundays—locals flock there after church.”
Pros
- Panoramic Rio views that are unmatched.
- Statue was voted one of the New7Wonders of the World.
- Elevators and escalators mean minimal stairs.
Cons
- Very crowded, especially during Carnival and Christmas.
- Fog or rain can block the view entirely.
- Ticket prices increased late this year – check official site.
Best for: Spiritual travelers, panoramic photographers, and anyone who loves cable cars and trains.
Official tickets at corcovado.com.br. Use Expedia for flight+hotel packages to Rio de Janeiro.
What you need to know before you go
Visa requirements
Every landmark is in a different country. For the Eiffel Tower and Colosseum, most nationalities need a Schengen visa. For the Statue of Liberty, an ESTA or US visa. For the Pyramids of Giza, many get a visa on arrival, but rules change. Always check the official embassy or immigration website of the country you plan to visit at least two months before travel. WakaAbuja does not process visas; we strongly recommend you verify directly.
Currency and payment tips
Carry local cash for smaller vendors (Egypt, Peru, India). In France, Italy, Australia, and the USA, cards are widely accepted. ATMs near major landmarks sometimes charge high fees. Withdraw money from bank ATMs in city centers instead. For Jordan, get dinars before entering Petra—the shops inside take only cash.
Local transport options
Use the metro in Paris, Rome, and New York (Statue of Liberty ferry). In Agra, auto-rickshaws are cheap but agree on the fare before you start. For Machu Picchu, you must take a train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes, then a bus up the mountain. For the Great Wall, hire a private driver or join a minibus from Beijing. In Rio, use the official cog train or licensed vans—avoid unmarked taxis.
Cultural etiquette
Dress modestly at the Taj Mahal (cover shoulders and knees). At Machu Picchu, do not sit or climb on the stone walls. In Petra, ask before photographing Bedouin people. At Christ the Redeemer, avoid mimicking the pose with your arms wide if it feels disrespectful. Tipping varies: 10 percent in the USA and Egypt, optional in France and Italy. No tipping expected in China or Australia.
Safety tips specific to each destination
Watch for pickpockets around the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and Statue of Liberty ferry queues. At the Pyramids, do not engage with camel owners who grab your hand. In Rio, leave expensive jewelry at your hotel. For the Great Wall, stay on marked paths—some unrestored sections have loose stones. For Petra, do not hike alone after sunset; the trails are unlit.
Where are these located?
For a full interactive route, open in Google Maps or consult a local guide on arrival. This map shows a central reference; search each landmark name directly in your maps app.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most visited famous landmark in the world?
The Eiffel Tower is generally cited as the most visited paid monument, with around 7 million annual visitors. The Great Wall of China and the Colosseum each see millions more, but exact figures vary because many sections of the Wall are free to access.
Which famous landmark is the oldest?
The Pyramids of Giza are the oldest on this list, built around 2560 BCE. They are over 4,500 years old, making them the only surviving ancient wonder.
How much does it cost to visit the Colosseum?
As of this year, a standard adult ticket (Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine) costs 18 euros. Reduced tickets for EU citizens aged 18-25 cost 4 euros. Underground and arena floor tours cost more. Prices change, so always check the official Parco Archeologico del Colosseo website before booking.
Is Machu Picchu safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Machu Picchu is safe. The site has park rangers and clear paths. However, the journey from Cusco involves trains and buses where petty theft can occur. Keep your backpack in sight, use official ticket vendors, and avoid hiking the Inca Trail alone without a registered guide.
When is the best time to visit the Taj Mahal?
The best time is November through February (cooler weather, less fog). Go on a weekday morning at sunrise. On Fridays the Taj Mahal is closed to tourists for prayers. Avoid April through June – temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
Do I need a visa to see multiple famous landmarks across different countries?
Yes, each country has its own visa policy. For a trip covering France, Italy, and Egypt, you would need a Schengen visa plus a separate Egyptian visa. For the USA and then Peru, you need a US visa (or ESTA) and a Peruvian visa if your nationality requires one. Always check the official embassy website for each country. No single visa covers multiple landmarks across continents.
Can I visit these famous landmarks with children?
Most landmarks are family-friendly. The Eiffel Tower and Colosseum have elevators. Machu Picchu and Petra involve a lot of walking—bring a child carrier for younger kids. The Statue of Liberty crown climb is not suitable for children under 4. Always check official sites for stroller policies.
Are there wheelchair-accessible options?
The Eiffel Tower, Colosseum (ground level and first ring), Statue of Liberty (pedestal only, not crown), and Christ the Redeemer have good wheelchair access. The Great Wall has cable cars but uneven stone paths. Petra’s main trail to the Treasury is mostly flat but gravel. Machu Picchu offers limited wheelchair routes. Contact each site directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
Plan your trip: booking platforms we trust
The WakaAbuja team has tested dozens of booking sites. These platforms offer the best balance of price, customer support, and cancellation flexibility for flights, hotels, tours, and vacation rentals. We use them ourselves when visiting these famous landmarks.