UNESCO World Heritage Sites
With a past as storied as Europe’s, it’s impossible not to take in some history while on your trip. Find out more about UNESCO World Heritage Site in the European territory.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that has been awarded as having cultural or environmental importance. Luckily, Europe has plenty of UNESCO sites to explore. From ancient castles to quaint seaside towns, you’ll find natural and cultural beauty everywhere you go. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the best UNESCO sites in Europe to discover on your next trip.
Interactive Map
© Daniel Stockman
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Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a rugged portion of coast and National Park on the Italian Riviera. Each of the five villages of Cinque Terre -Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore- has its own character. It’s a place where homes stand shoulder to shoulder overlooking the Ligurian Sea. With cars being banned, locals get around by foot or train.
© Ed Coyle
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Kleine Scheidegg Station, Switzerland
Jungfrau is one of The Alps’ most iconic summits, and it reaches elevations over 13,000 ft/3454m. Often snow-capped, it was once one of the most difficult peaks to climb in Europe. Today, Jungfrau serves as a popular tourist destination and offers train rides to the summit’s best views.
© Miguel Virkkunen Carvalho
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Bryggen, Norway
Once the center of Norway’s business/trading district, Bryggen is a unique look into the area’s historic past. It was founded sometime around the year 1000 and, miraculously, some of the original buildings from the township’s heyday still stand today.
© Llee Wu
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Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland
Located in Northern Ireland, Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder. Folklore says that the jagged columns and smooth rock formations were built by a giant that lived in the area, hence the name. But today it’s known that the epic landscape of Giant’s Causeway is the result of a volcanic eruption from thousands of years ago.
© Lee Cannon
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Venice, Italy
One of Europe’s most romantic cities is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venice, also known as the City of Water, dates back to the 5th century and has long been a cultural hotspot in Italy. Navigable only by boat, the entire city is a marvelous labyrinth of canals, bridges and historic buildings.
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Kronborg Castle, Denmark
Kronborg Castle in Denmark is one of the most culturally prominent castles in all of Europe. For many years the castle was celebrated as one of the most beautiful architectural achievements in the world. It was so admired that the castle’s grounds served as the setting for Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
© Latvian Tourism
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Historic Center of Riga, Latvia
The city of Riga is the capital of Latvia. The historic center of the city was chosen as an UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding architecture. The oldest parts of Riga were constructed as far back as the 13th century. And much of that original styling influences the city to this day.
© Jaak Nilson
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Tallinn, Estonia
The historic center of Tallinn in Estonia is a true medieval gem. Also known as Old Town, Tallinn offers one of the most authentic portrayals of 13th century European life. Today, Old Town’s city center is protected to ensure the buildings, streets and overall ambiance stay true to its historic roots.
© MindsEye PJ
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Þingvellir, Iceland
In a country as beautiful as Iceland, it’s no surprise that Þingvellir National Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site’s vast landscape includes clear lakes, sharp cliffs and awe-inspiring trails. Today,Þingvellir inspires visitors from around the world to hike and camp in its natural beauty.
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Carcassonne, France
As one of Europe’s oldest man-made sites, the Fortified City of Carcassonne remains awe-inspiring to this day. The earliest known occupants of the area date all the way back to the 6th century. And while the stone walls of the property have hanged owners throughout the years, it will always be one of France’s true treasures.
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