11 Historic cities to add to your travel bucket list

Travel Buff: 11 Historic cities to fall in love with

Dione Chen

01 Aug 2016

1/11
Athens, Greece
Athens has served as a powerful city-state for thousands of years, and has played a huge role in the growth of Europe into what it is today. It is the capital of Greece, and also its largest city that continues to serve an important function for the continent in many aspects, due to its strategic location. Its ancient monuments are preserved as landmarks, including the world-famous Parthenon and Temple of Olympian Zeus.
2/11
Beijing, China
Beijing has gained a reputation for being the capital of China and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, but not without reason. Written records date this ancient city back to more than three millennia ago, which served as the residence city of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is one of the most prosperous cities in China, and boasts of many historical sites such as the Forbidden City and parts of the infamous Great Wall of China.
3/11
Berlin, Germany
Berlin has gone through unstable times of political unrest, especially during World War I & II, when it was infamously divided into East and West Berlin. Today, it is an important symbol of reunification, with the preservation of many of its landmarks to remind the world about the importance of peace. The historical architecture and expressions of art that line the streets and the Berlin Wall today will amaze you.
4/11
Lisbon, Portugal
Being the oldest city of Western Europe, expect to see monuments dating back to the Neolithic Age in this capital city. It is built on seven hills, giving the place a very iconic structure, so be prepared to get some exercise done here. Housing buildings of medieval architecture such as the Belém Tower and the Jeronimos Monastery, you'll be feasting your eyes on things that you never thought you'd see in your lifetime.
5/11
London, England
Being one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, it is easy to overlook the history that has shaped what London is today. However, it is home to lovers of Literature and Art, and is one of the oldest cities in England. Today, it is home to people of different backgrounds and cultures, which makes it a very interesting place to visit.
6/11
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv has gone through many rulers and name changes to become one of the most historic settlements in the world. The ancient landmarks found all over the city will magically transport you back to the age of the Ottoman Empire and beyond, as you admire the stunning views of the city sitting on the steps of the Ancient Stadium of Philipopolis, or walking through the tranquil streets of the Old Town.
7/11
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has survived violence and destruction through its lifetime due to the instability of Europe in the past. It is now a beautiful tourist destination and one of the most popular travel sites among people from all over the world. It is both modern and historical, and is a symbolic representation of the most significant periods of ancient Europe.
8/11
Rome, Italy
When we think of Rome, The Colosseum is one of the first things that comes to our minds, having served an important function as the world's largest amphitheatre and an important entertainment venue for the Romans. The Pantheon is another breathtaking structure that people continue to marvel at to this today.
9/11
Jerusalem, Israel
Jerusalem is known as 'The Holy City', home to many landmarks and religious sites significant to Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The Old City has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains places of worship for all three Abrahamic religions within its walls, making it a truly remarkable sight to behold. It will take more than just a few days to learn all about the rich history and culture of this nation.
10/11
Varanasi, India
This metropolitan city is extremely important for the function of trade in India, being an industrial centre famous for its fabrics and perfumes. It is colourful, vibrant and sacred state that is regarded as one of Hinduism's seven holy cities. Brace yourself as you step into a land unknown, but a place that will also blow you away.
11/11
Xi’an, China
China has had four great capital cities in its history, Xi'an being the oldest of them all, having housed several of the earliest dynasties in the country. Its preserved monuments date back to before the 3rd century BC, such as the Qin Shi Huang Mausoleum. It is a place that's full of ancient Chinese culture you won't be able to find anywhere else, making this a top tourist destination in Asia.

Get transported into another era at these places you’ll want to call home.

Learning about the history of a country or a city provides incredible insights into the culture and society that makes it what it is today. We will also be able to understand our own traditions better, which can be a very enlightening and fulfilling process. To gain the most out of any history lesson, travelling to the respective destination and fully immersing yourself in its culture is the best way to gain the most knowledge about that particular place.

In our gallery, we’ve shortlisted some of the loveliest historic cities we think you’ll want to visit. Contrary to popular belief, history doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re a history buff or not, the beautiful sights at these places are so immensely captivating, you’ll definitely be amazed at what you’ll get to see here. Just remember: with the world continuously changing, some of these places could be undergoing political unrest, so be sure to plan accordingly and steer clear of dangerous regions until everything stable again.

Dione Chen

Photos: Getty Images

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