For many people, European history feels distant, like something from a textbook. Yet, Europe is a living museum of human achievement and resilience. If you’re ready to trade your backyard for ancient ruins, grand palaces, and untold stories, here are 20 European historical sites worth the jet lag.
1. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Where ancient Romans once cheered on gladiatorial battles with the same fervour reserved for modern-day sports. Warning: Lions not included.
2. The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Home to the Parthenon and the birthplace of democracy, where you can ponder the ancient Greeks’ contributions to modern life, like politics and the art of queuing.
3. Stonehenge, England
A prehistoric monument shrouded in mystery and the occasional conspiracy theory involving aliens. It’s like a puzzle with missing pieces and no picture on the box.
4. The Alhambra, Granada, Spain
A stunning example of Moorish architecture that makes you wonder if you’ve stepped into a fairy tale or just a really elaborate garden party.
5. Auschwitz-Birkenau, Poland
A sobering reminder of the horrors of WWII, offering a poignant lesson on the importance of remembrance and the dangers of indifference.
6. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Originally a temporary exhibit (and considered an eyesore), it is now the unmistakable symbol of romance. Apparently, nothing says love, like 7,300 tons of iron.
7. The Anne Frank House, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The hidden annex where Anne Frank wrote her diary is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s resilience in the face of unimaginable horrors.
8. The Vatican City, Rome, Italy
Home to the Pope, the Sistine Chapel, and enough art to make your high school art teacher weep with joy. Dress code: Less is not more.
9. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Perched atop an extinct volcano, this castle has witnessed centuries of history, sieges, and the occasional royal scandal.
10. The Berlin Wall, Germany
Or what’s left of it, serving as a stark reminder of the Cold War and a symbol of reunification. Selfies are encouraged, and graffiti is optional.
11. Pompeii, Italy
A city frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, offering a glimpse into Roman life and a solid reminder to always have an evacuation plan.
12. Versailles, France
The ultimate symbol of royal excess, where you can marvel at what an unlimited budget and a touch of megalomania can achieve in terms of home décor.
13. The Book of Kells, Dublin, Ireland
An intricately illustrated manuscript housed in Trinity College proves that monks were the original graphic designers.
14. The Tower of London, England
A historical jackpot housing the crown jewels, tales of intrigue, and enough ghosts to keep a paranormal investigator busy for decades.
15. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty proves that sometimes real life does indeed imitate art.
16. Normandy Beaches, France
The site of D-Day, where you can pay homage to the bravery of soldiers and the turning point of WWII, all while contemplating the complexities of peace and freedom.
17. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey
A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that’s been a church, a mosque, and now a museum, embodying centuries of religious and cultural history.
18. The Catacombs of Paris, France
A subterranean labyrinth lined with the remains of over six million people, making it the most macabre reminder to live life to the fullest.
19. The Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain
Where you can come face to face with works by the likes of Velázquez, Goya, and other artists your art history teacher idolized.
20. Loch Ness, Scotland
It’s not exactly historical, but you can’t deny the appeal of trying to spot Nessie, the most elusive celebrity in the highlands.
Step Back in Time
These historical sites offer more than just a photo op; they provide a tangible connection to the past and, perhaps, a deeper understanding of humanity’s journey. Plus, let’s be honest, they make for some brag-worthy moments that’ll elevate your travel stories from “been there, done that” to “wait, you did what now?” So pack your bags, get your historical hashtags at the ready, and prepare to step into the pages of history.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / TungCheung.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.