10 vacation destinations for history buffs

Egyptian wonders

Egypt is a center of ancient history and an absolute must-visit. Staying in central Cairo on the banks of the Nile is a great location to be based in order to visit many of the Egyptian wonders. From the Sphinx, to the Pyramids, to the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is packed with awe-inspiring historical sights that you’ll remember forever.

London, England

As the capital, London is central to the history and culture of England which is central to an even broader global history. At each turn, see historical sights ranging from the Tower of London, Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Kensington Palace, Buckingham Palace and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

History is found in every crevice of the city. Along with the sights, London offers some of the world’s best museums where you can see real living pieces of history such as the Rosetta Stone. It’s nearly impossible to get bored in London and you’ll leave having learned so much.

The Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

Take one look at a photo of this area and you’ll want to book the next flight to Peru. The “Lost Cities of the Ancient Incas” is one of the most famous attractions in Peru and in the world.

The 15th-century ruins set against the natural beauty of the area is one of the most stunning settings you’ll come across. The outstanding views you get here are an added bonus to the history.

The Holy Land

Full of religious history, this area is an absolute must for your bucket list. The history is found in Israel is important to many religions. Between Jerusalem, Nazareth, the Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Garden of Gethsemane and the Mount of Olives, meaningful history is filled to the brim in this area.

D-Day beaches of Normandy, France

Normandy and the D-Day beaches of Northern France are of great historical importance to France, Europe, the U.S. and the world. The events that took place there evoke an emotional response from everyone that visits them as they remember WWII. The area is beautiful, but you can feel the solemnity in the air.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague makes this list because of the special way European history is preserved here. Due to the fact that the Czech Republic surrendered early in World War II, it was not bombed, which means that much more is preserved there than in many other European cities.

The gothic-style architecture and beautiful buildings will make you adore Prague. A few highlights are Wenceslas Square, Prague Castle and Saint George’s Basilica.

Rome, Italy

Rome is another example of a fun and magical place to visit that is also steeped in layers and layers of political, religious and cultural history. It is central to the history of modern civilization.

Bounce around between the Colosseum, Vatican, Spanish Steps and the Sistine Chapel and you’ll realize how much has happened in Rome. You can feel the history in every cobblestone.

Beijing, China

This Asian city is a really interesting historical destination, as it is an established modern city while also offering a glimpse into eastern culture and history. Spending time in the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace will have you fascinated with ancient Chinese history and the Great Wall is a historical wonder in and of itself.

Boston, Massachusetts

A little closer to home, this city is often nicknamed the “Athens of America.“ Although Washington D.C. is the nation’s capitol, you can’t beat the history in Boston where much of America’s colonization began.

Explore the freedom trail to discover more about the city’s past. Other places of note include the Boston Public Library, Faneuil Hall and the USS Constitution.

Athens, Greece

Lastly, Athens is a dream destination for history lovers, especially those who have a particular interest in ancient history. Traces of the foundations of government can be found in Athens and there are great places to visit including the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

Each of these 10 destinations has something different to offer and they represent the unique, rich history and culture that make up this beautiful world.If you’re a history lover, what would you add to this list?

Emi Rigby lives in San Francisco and documents her travels around the world on her food & travel blog WellTraveledWife.com.