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April 16, 2022

6 Best History-Rich Destinations

Global Cultural Travel Tips & Inspiration

Here are six adventures that immerse you in some of the world’s most significant historical places.

Reading about historic places filled with evocative ruins is one thing—but finding yourself amid their storied landmarks is another thing entirely. Here are six adventures in some of the world’s most historically significant places, where the mark of legendary authors, intrepid explorers, and advanced civilizations can still bring goosebumps. Come face-to-face with captivating sites that have stood for millennia, and let these magnificent settings become part of your own treasured travel memories. Put down the books and let us—and your imagination—be your guide!

Ancient standing stones under a dramatic sky with a visible rainbow arch, situated in an open grassy landscape, make for one of the most captivating history-rich destinations.

Scotland

In the land of mist-shrouded crags and artisanal whisky, hike to the 5,000-year-old Callanish Standing Stones (older than Stonehenge!), walk along Loch Ness on the lookout for Nessie, visit the iconic ruins of Brochel Castle, 15th century stronghold of Clan MacLeod, and hear Gaelic legends told by a traditional storyteller.

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View of Machu Picchu, one of the best history destinations, with Huayna Picchu mountain in the background. Surrounded by ancient stone structures and terraces, this history-rich destination is partly veiled by clouds in the sky.

Peru

The mountaintop masterpiece of Machu Picchu and the ancient Inca capital of Cusco are astonishing world treasures. Explore them on a leisurely cultural walking trip or make the challenging trek on the stone-paved Inca Trail. You can even customize a Private Journey for your own group.

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A history-rich monastery with red-tiled roofs sits atop a steep, rocky cliff surrounded by lush green hills and mountains, making it one of the best destinations to explore.

Greece

Head to the sunny Cyclades islands to walk a Roman road, visit the Venetian fortress of Exomvourgo, and explore sacred Delos, holy island of the ancient Greeks. In Greece’s north, walk in Zagoria’s hidden villages, hike to the Meteora monasteries, and ascend Mount Olympus, home of the gods. Our Cruise Collection also offers a number of Greek journeys.

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A panoramic view of Jodhpur, India features the history-rich Mehrangarh Fort on a hill and the Jaswant Thada mausoleum in the foreground. The cityscape extends into the distance under a partly cloudy sky, making it one of the best destinations for historical travel enthusiasts.

Rajasthan, India

Deep in India’s desert kingdom is a world of colorful cities and vibrant festivals. We’ll explore the sandstone Mehrangarh Fort, with its seven massive gateways leading to temples and palaces, gardens and lakes, and its bustling lanes and bazaars, and experience the Pushkar or Nagaur festival, a unique livestock trading fair.

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A detailed view of the ancient Library of Celsus in Ephesus, framed by an archway, with a backdrop of blue sky and scattered clouds; a prime example of history-rich destinations.

Turkey

Explore fabled Istanbul, heart of the Ottoman and Byzantine worlds, walk the marble-paved Arcadian Way at magnificent Ephesus, Roman capital of Asia, hike to Lycian rock tombs accessible only on foot, and snorkel in cobalt bays above mysterious cities long buried by the sea.

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Discover the ancient ruins of a theater with snow-capped Mount Etna in the background, under a clear blue sky. This history-rich destination offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and historic charm.

Sicily

This Mediterranean island shaped by dramatic Mount Etna has epic World Heritage Sites: Roman temples, impressive Greek theatres, cathedrals with golden Norman-Arab mosaics, and Siracusa’s unforgettable Ortigia Island, with its Baroque public squares and Doric temples. Our expert Trip Leaders bring them all to life for you.

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