Enchanting places full of history and charm, the Seven Wonders of the World have always been trendy destinations for travellers and are on the list of the most beautiful places on the planet, to be visited at least once in a lifetime. Often recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these sites possess an undeniable cultural value, and millions of tourists set out each year to discover them. Between useful information and practical tips, here are some suggestions for visiting the 7 Wonders of the World.
Wonders of the Ancient, Modern and Natural World: Who chose them?
Called ‘classical wonders’ to distinguish them from modern ones, the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are the works considered by ancient Greeks and Romans to be the most extraordinary ever created in the history of mankind. It was in 2000, on the occasion of the Sydney Olympics, that the Swiss New Open World Corporation launched an international initiative to elect the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, officially announced on 07/07/2007, and the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, proclaimed in 2011.
7 Wonders of the Ancient World
Here are what the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are and where they are found:
Pyramid of Cheops at Giza, Egypt
Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Iraq
Statue of Zeus in Olympia, Greece
Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, Turkey
Colossus of Rhodes, Greece
Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Turkey
Lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt
Pyramid of Cheops at Giza, Egypt
One of the most evocative sites in the world, the Pyramids of Giza need no introduction and you cannot plan a trip to Egypt without visiting them.
The Pyramid of Cheops is the largest of the three and guided tours take you inside the imposing structure; the route is not exactly easy, with uphill stretches and areas where you have to crouch, so go with comfortable clothing and shoes.
- Not recommended for those suffering from claustrophobia or poor mobility.
This is also a suitable experience for those travelling with children, but pack plenty of water, given the sweltering heat inside the Pyramid and the journey under the sun to get there.
Last tip? Go in the early hours of the morning to take advantage of the reduced turnout.
The ideal seasons to visit the Pyramids are Autumn and Spring, when temperatures are very pleasant, but also Winter with cool and windy days. Avoid the summer period, peaks of 40 degrees Celsius are reached in the desert; if you really must leave in the summer period, we recommend early morning excursions.
Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Iraq
An ‘earthly paradise’ whose existence is still questioned by historians and scholars today. According to ancient written sources, the incredible Hanging Gardens of Babylon were created around 600 B.C. by order of King Nebuchadnezzar II on the banks of the Euphrates River, a geographical area that corresponds to today's southern Baghdad, Iraq. Although the issue is still unresolved today, Babylon and its Hanging Gardens have always inspired great poets and painters such as the Frenchman Edgar Degas, whose famous painting ‘Semiramis at the Construction of Babylon’ is preserved today in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
Iraq is home to many beautiful sights to see such as the Ishtar Gate, the Iraqi National Museum or the city of Nineveh. At this time, however, due to inadequate security conditions, the country cannot be considered a tourist destination and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally advises against travel, especially to the central region of the country.
Statue of Zeus in Olympia, Greece
Made by the Athenian sculptor Phidias, the gold and ivory Statue of Zeus was located in the Temple of Olympia dedicated to the Greek god and is on the list of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The work was destroyed by a violent fire but the Temple can still be visited today. If you are planning a trip to discover Ancient Greece, you cannot miss a visit to the Archaeological Site of Olympia with a stop at the Temple and the Museum (included in the price of the site entrance ticket), a plunge into the historical Hellenic civilisation.
Absolutely recommended for students of Classical Art and all lovers of Ancient Greece: after seeing them only in books, coming face to face with masterpieces such as the Hermes with Dionysus and the Nike of Peonius is an exceptional experience.
To best understand the splendour of the cradle of Western civilisation, the suggestion is to rely on a guided tour.
From a climatic point of view, Olympia is a perfect year-round destination. April and May the top months, in December and January a few too many precipitations can spoil your holiday.
Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, Turkey
From magnificence to desolation. All that remains of the famous Temple of Ephesus dedicated to the goddess Artemis today is a single column and a few remains scattered all around.
If you have decided to visit what remains of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, arm yourself with plenty of imagination and try to relive it in its former glory.
Don't be discouraged, however, because the archaeological site of Ephesus is an enchantment for the eyes and the soul. Located in the Selcuk district, about 3 km from the city centre, the site is a crucial stop on any trip to Turkey and is home to memorable buildings such as the Library of Celsus, the Fountain of Trajan and the House of the Virgin Mary.
- If you are planning a tour of the ancient ruins of Ephesus, there are many solutions to choose from depending on the time you want to dedicate to the visit.
- Stock up on water because there are no fountains along the route and especially in the summer months you will be walking for a long time under the scorching sun.
- Selcuk is located not far from Izmir (Turkish: Izmir). There are many other attractions in the area worth a visit such as the Clock Tower or the Kadifekale Castle, inspired by Alexander the Great.
Especially during peak season, the archaeological site of Ephesus overflows with tourists and it takes at least three to visit it properly and calmly. The site is completely open-air, with no shaded areas where you can take shelter, so if you leave in summer, we recommend avoiding the hottest hours, planning your excursion early in the morning.
Colossus of Rhodes, Greece
Built in honour of the God Helios, the mythical Colossus of Rhodes was a gigantic 32-metre statue built near the harbour before it was destroyed in the earthquake that struck the Greek city in 226 BC. At the spot where, according to tradition, the statue rested its feet today, you will find two columns with bronze statues of two deer, the island's symbolic animals and the city's tourist attraction, on top.
If you want to make your own arrangements, after a visit to the old town of Rhodes walk to the waterfront of Mandraki harbour to the site of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. This is a very pleasant walk, to be taken as a couple or with the family, past windmills, an ancient castle (from which there is a beautiful view) and the two columns that stand right next to the harbour.
- Alternatively, you can also choose organised excursions that combine a tour of Mandraki harbour with visits to other attractions in the historic area, such as the Amboise Gate or the Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes.
When to go to Rhodes? The Greek island is an ideal destination all year round, especially in late spring from mid-May or in the second half of September: pleasant climate, not too high tourist influx and prices not as high as in the high season between July and August.
Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, Turkey
As with the Temple of Artemis, a few column fragments and little else remain of the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus due to a tremendous earthquake, centuries of neglect and sloppy restoration work. This does not detract from the fact that it seems absurd to go to Bodrum (formerly Halicarnassus) and not visit the remains of the monumental tomb built at the behest of Artemisia, an archaeological site that, although bare today, retains an indescribable charm and is on the list of the 7 Wonders of the Classical World.
The visit lasts only a short time and the ticket (to be made on site) to access the ruins of the Mausoleum is not expensive. An attraction within everyone's reach, you can even touch those ancient stones and columns, but don't set out for this historic monument with high expectations or you risk being disappointed as many tourists have been.
- To the left of the Mausoleum is a small museum with models, historical notes and original marble friezes. Some remains are kept at the British Museum in London.
On your trip to Bodrum, it is worthwhile to include a stop at the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus but without spending too much time there. Also make room for other famous attractions such as St Peter's Castle, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology or day trips by boat to the surrounding islands such as Kos or Orak.
For a different and relaxing experience, treat yourself to a relaxing half-day in a typical Turkish bath pampered by saunas and massages.
Avoid Bodrum in the winter months, which are generally quite rainy. OK the summer period, the best climate of the year, but if you fear too much heat then opt for May and September.
Lighthouse of Alexandria, Egypt
The tallest building in the world after the Pyramids, the Pharos Lighthouse in Alexandria was destroyed by a violent earthquake in 1303 and is on the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
Today, on the ruins of the Ancient Lighthouse stands the Citadel of Qaitbay, another trendy tourist destination to include in your travel plans to Alexandria.
Fort Qaitbay is located in the Corniche, the area of the Eastern Port, on the opposite side of the famous Alexandrian Library. A visit can be done independently (taxis drop you off near the Citadel) or with organised tours that take you to discover all the historical sites of the city.
The entrance is located on the right-hand side of the road leading to the Citadel; you will find precise directions also in English, so if you decide to visit on your own, you will have no major problems understanding where to go. Reduced ticket for university students by showing your student card at the box office.
Recommended for families with children of all ages due to its proximity to the sea and the wonderful views of the bay from the highest parts of the Fortress.
The Citadel of Qaitbay is the city's most famous landmark, a must-see on a par with the Roman Amphitheatre or the Catacombs of Kom el Shaqafa.
In the Mediterranean coast area, the climate is acceptable all year round, but the best time to go to Alexandria is from October to March, especially if you suffer from excessive heat.
7 Wonders of the Modern World
Here are the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and where they are found:
Great Wall of China - China
Petra - Jordan
Christ the Redeemer - Brazil
Macchu Picchu - Perù
Colosseum - Italy
Chichén Itza - Mexico
Taj Mahal - India
Great Wall of China, China
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, the Great Wall of China rightfully ranks among the 7 Wonders of the World and visiting it is an experience that marks you, such is the majesty and power of impact of this attraction.
Mutianyu or Badaling? The Wall can be accessed from several points, including Mutianyu and Badaling;
If you are undecided between the two sections, definitely choose Mutianyu, which is less touristy than Badaling and more difficult to reach and therefore less crowded.
Mutianyu is about an hour and a half from Beijing by car and there are several options to climb to the top: on foot (more than half an hour of physical effort, definitely not recommended for those with mobility problems and those travelling with children), by chairlift or by Cable Car (in five minutes you will be at the top).
- For the descent, choose the toboggan, a fast and fun slide; it costs a little more than the other options but is a blast, super recommended!
Once at the top, you can take different routes walking along the Wall between the various numbered towers. A tiring visit, which will take you a whole morning or afternoon, but the wonder helps to overcome the tiredness and boredom that can accompany teenagers in experiences of this kind. Between the towers there are several public toilets and refreshment points (of course, the prices are well above average).
Useful tips for visiting the Great Wall of China
AGet there very early in the morning so that it is practically empty and avoid weekends, when the attraction is very busy and the visit is much more chaotic. There are some really strenuous stretches so arm yourself with comfortable shoes, a hat and sportswear (if you go in summer, take plenty of water with you, it is very hot even when the sky is overcast). There are many types of tours to visit the Great Wall of China, which in addition to the entrance fee also include transport from Beijing or tickets for the cable car service
One last tip for the more daring: head for Tower Number 20 and go past the renovated part, where the wilder, more authentic wilderness begins.
The ideal time to visit the Great Wall of China? In autumn, the generally optimal temperatures and clear skies provide the perfect conditions for observing the Wall in all its grandeur in the distance.
TOUR AND ACTIVITIES IN BEIJING
Petra, Jordan
A spectacle for the eyes! The city of Petra in Jordan is a true splendour, certainly one of the most beautiful places in the world, and it is easy to see why it is among the new seven wonders.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, the ancient city of Petra is carved into the rock and is home to an archaeological site that offers experiences beyond imagining.
In addition to the famous Pharaoh's Treasure that you see in all the photographs, the entrance to the Siq, the Theatre, the royal tombs, the Monastery and the Hill of Sacrifice are also not to be missed.
A magnificent but challenging visit
To admire the archaeological site of Petra there is a lot of walking, a physically demanding visit and not recommended for people who are too elderly or physically handicapped; inside the site, however, one can use donkey, horse and camel transport or a small buggy.
The hike is magnificent, rich in trails and with several views of the site. Dedicate a whole day to it, arrive early in the morning and wear comfortable clothing and shoes, possibly trekking shoes given the uphill route, and second-hand shoes (the sand will almost certainly make them dirty); equip yourself with sunscreen, a hat and water, even if inside the site you will find small bazaars and gazebos where you can get refreshments.
Useful tips for visiting Petra
If you do not want to have fixed timetables, you can arrive in Petra by taxi from the centre of Wadi Musa, a small town in the surrounding area, or from Amman. Alternatively, hotels generally provide shuttle services to the archaeological site.
You can buy entrance tickets at the ticket office (bring your passport and money in contacts, they do not accept cash cards) or even directly online to save time (in addition to the printed voucher, electronic tickets on smartphones are also accepted).
- Among the different types of tours, the most beautiful and evocative is the ‘Petra By Night’ route, a romantic experience ideal for couples.
Spring and autumn are the recommended times to visit Petra, especially April-May and October-November. Avoid Summer, especially August because of the scorching weather, and the winter season, which in Jordan is characterised by bitter cold and heavy rain.
TRIP TO JORDAN - WHAT TO SEE AND BEST TOURS
Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
The symbol of Rio de Janeiro that dominates the entire city from the top of Corcovado Hill. Seeing Christ the Redeemer in Brazil is a mystical and moving experience, the statue is majestic and the 360° panorama over the bay of Rio is something incredible.
Thirty-eight metres of goose bumps; only after visiting it will you understand why Christ the Redeemer is considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
The attraction can be reached by various means that take you directly up to the monument, but before organising a visit there is some evaluation to be done.
Crazy queues for the little train, get your ticket in advance!
You can climb to the top of Corcovado by taxi, by shuttle bus or by a characteristic panoramic rack railway. The little train can be picked up on Rua Cosme Velho and in about 20 minutes takes you up to the flight of stairs just below Cristo. The little train is the preferred means of transport both for the views to be admired during the ascent and for its comfort, especially if you are travelling with small children.
In order to avoid kilometre-long queues, the advice is to get your train ticket in advance by purchasing it online.
If you do not have a ticket, to avoid unnecessary waiting, it is preferable to go up to the Christ Monument by taxi or shuttle bus. Those with mobility problems can also make use of the escalators or lift that lead right under the statue.
Useful tips for visiting the Christ the Redeemer statue
First of all, to enjoy the spectacle, choose a clear day with good weather because in case of fog, the view is practically zero and there is a risk of wasting a day.
If you want to take indelible souvenir photos, sunset is the best time to climb Corcovado. Alternatively, opt for the morning to avoid the throngs of tourists that are usually created under the monument.
Christ the Redeemer and Sugar Loaf
Together with a stop at Sugar loaf Mountain, the climb to the Christ the Redeemer statue is one of the things to do at all costs if you are in Rio de Janeiro. Among the many tours and tickets available online there is also the combined option that allows you to combine the two experiences on the same day with just one ticket.
Rio de Janeiro's climate is ideal for a trip at any time of year but perfection is reached between March and June and between September and December. In January and February, the height of the Brazilian summer, the heat can be truly unbearable with peaks of 40°, while in July and August the Rio winter can reserve days of wind and rain.
TOUR AND ACTIVITIES TO DO IN RIO DE JANEIRO
Machu Picchu, Perù
Definitely the highlight of a trip to Peru. If you are looking for a magical and mysterious place, head for Machu Picchu to see ‘The Lost City of the Incas’, one of the seven wonders of the world listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Late night departure
Being the most visited destination in Peru and one of the most beautiful places in the world, this archaeological site is always taken by tourists, in every season.
For this reason, the recommendation is to start the queue in the middle of the night for the bus that takes you from the Agua Calientes village to the archaeological zone, so that you will be among the first to access the site.
The bus starts shuttling from the village to the archaeological site as early as 5.30 a.m.; get in line at least an hour before the departure of the first bus, but even if there are a lot of people before you, don't be discouraged, the sacrifice of the nightly wake-up call will be amply repaid by the spectacle that will present itself before your eyes.
The alternative is to walk the distance (about two hours of walking up a fairly steep slope), which is definitely not recommended for those who are out of shape.
Fast Track Tours & Tickets
To visit the site of the Inca civilisation, get your Machu Picchu entrance tickets online with a skip-the-line option or choose from one of the many organised tours and excursions departing from the town of Cusco that also include transfers and entrance fees to the archaeological site.
Useful tips for visiting Machu Picchu
Seeing the lost city of Machu Picchu is the trip of a lifetime, a beautiful but definitely tiring experience, not really recommended for those travelling with children or elderly people. It is compulsory to have your passport and ID with you as well as the entrance ticket. If you are travelling in summer, sun and mosquitos will accompany your trip; wear comfortable shoes, trousers and long-sleeved shirts and don't forget sun cream and mosquito spray.
September is a great month to visit Machu Picchu, both for the weather and flight prices, but in general our Summer is a good time to plan the trip. Discard the period from December to March because of the persistent rains.
TOUR AND TICKETS TO MACHU PICCHU
Colosseum, Italy
Spelled Colosseum, read Rome. One of the seven wonders of the modern world is the symbol not only of the capital city but of Italy as a whole, an attraction that attracts millions of visitors from all corners of the globe every year.
Check out our tips for visiting the Colosseum in Rome without stress.
Chichén Itza, Mexico
The excursion to Chichén Itza is a ‘must see’ if you visit Mexico.
Despite being a regular stop for numerous visitors each year, the archaeological site is well preserved and has not lost the magic that makes it one of the seven wonders of the world.
In the heart of the Maya civilisation
Once inside the complex, an exciting journey begins, immersed in the greenery and power of the Maya civilisation. Don't miss the gigantic Pyramid of Kakulcan, the Temple of the Warriors and the Ball Game Field.
Devote at least half a day to visiting Chichén Itza; one is astounded by the architectural beauty of this impressive thousand-year-old site, which is accessible to all as one can move around quite easily with a pushchair and pram.
Tips for visiting Chichén Izta
The tour to the Chichén Itza complex is a good option especially if you are staying in Cancun or Playa del Carmen. The advice is to rely on a guide to discover its secrets and learn about its mythical history. If you prefer to visit it on your own, we suggest that you go early in the morning, around 10am, so as not to find a disproportionate influx of people (there will still be a bit of a queue, but it will be smoother) and to avoid the hottest hours as the sun beats down hard inside the archaeological site. Be sure to bring water, a hat and sunscreen, as the heat is felt in all seasons.
When to go to Chichén Itza? Not recommended for a trip to Yucatan in the rainy season - June to October - hot and muggy and with hurricane risk. The spring period is OK, go for the months of March and April, but due to very high temperatures plan your visit early in the morning, the coolest hours.
TOUR AND TICKETS TO CHICHÉN ITZÁ
Taj Mahal, India
Visiting all of India in one trip would be impossible, so one solution chosen by tourists is to generally concentrate on the northern area, in the so-called Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur.
It is in Agra that one finds the most beautiful and famous monument to love ever, one of the seven wonders of the world: the Taj Mahal, the jewel of Muslim art in India.
Entry controls and ticketing for foreign tourists
Once you have passed the entry controls (there is the usual division of men and women, but once the controls are over you will be reunited) you find yourself in front of this immense white marble mausoleum, a marvel that will fill your eyes. The emotion is indescribable, you just have to go there to realise it.
The ticket for foreign tourists is priced higher than the one reserved for Indian visitors but includes priority entry and access to electric shuttles connecting the ticket office to the main entrance of the site. Generally, the queue for foreign visitors moves relatively quickly, but during peak season, when tourist crowds are substantial, save time and skip the line by purchasing tickets online, which ensure priority access to the Taj Mahal.
- The entry ticket to the Taj Mahal also includes a bottle of water and shoe covers, which must be worn to visit the interior.
- All children under the age of 15 enter for free.
The site is surrounded by beautifully clean and well-maintained gardens, with birds and squirrels, making the Taj Mahal a suitable place for families visiting with children. If you're spending the entire day in Agra, you can combine your visit with a trip to the Agra Red Fort or the Tomb of I'timād-ud-Daulah, commonly known as the 'Small Taj' due to its resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
Tips for Visiting the Taj Mahal
The perfect time to admire the Taj Mahal is in the morning at the gate opening, when the rays of the dawn illuminate the milky white marble, or at sunset when the marble takes on a rosy hue. Arrive at the Taj Mahal without large bags or backpacks, and without tripods for taking photographs, as you will be told that they are not allowed inside. Bring only the essentials needed for your visit.
To visit the Taj Mahal, choose the time of year between early October and March (with November and February being ideal). This way, you'll avoid the monsoon season and the scorching, humid heat of the Indian summer, which is truly unbearable.
7 Wonders of the Natural World
If you're adventurous travelers who love the wildest and most untamed destinations, your next stop could be one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World. Here are some must-see tours:
- Amazon Rainforest, Brazil
- Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
- Iguazu Falls, Argentina
- Jeju Island, South Korea
- Komodo Island, Indonesia
- Puerto Princesa Underground River, Philippines
- Table Mountain, South Africa
Which of the 7 Wonders of the World have you visited? Share other tips or useful advice by leaving a comment on the article.