The most beautiful churches in the world

Sagrada Família (Barcelona)

For me, this is the most beautiful church in the world. It’s a must-see attraction from the inside for anyone visiting Barcelona!

It was designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who played a role in many of the city’s buildings. Construction began in 1882 and is progressing extremely slowly due to the complexity of the plans. Work is still ongoing, and when completed, it will be the largest basilica in the world.

Its length from the apse to the northern end is 90 meters and it’s 45 meters wide. Its interior height reaches 75 meters. Features of several styles can be found. The architects before Gaudí designed a neo-Catalan building, which is a type of neo-Gothic style. Gaudí himself further developed it in the spirit of modernism.

Barcelona attractions

St. Peter’s Basilica (Vatican)

The largest and most significant church of the Roman Catholic Church, and also the seat of the papacy. The basilica is one of the holiest sites in Christianity and attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists annually.

The original church was built around 324 during the reign of Emperor Constantine I, above the tomb of Saint Peter the Apostle. Construction of the current basilica began in 1506 under Pope Julius II and was completed in 1626 under Pope Urban VIII. Many famous Renaissance and Baroque artists and architects participated in the construction, including Bramante, Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

St. Peter’s Square is located in front of the basilica, designed by Bernini. The square is surrounded by two semicircular colonnades. Inside, there are numerous artistic creations, including Michelangelo’s Pietà.

Rome attractions

Seville Cathedral

One of Spain’s most significant and impressive buildings, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

It is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world and the third-largest church in the Christian world. The 15th-century cathedral was built on the site of a former Moorish mosque, some elements of which were incorporated into the new structure.

Its outstanding feature is the 104-meter-high Giralda tower. The cathedral’s bell tower was originally the minaret of the Moorish mosque. On top of it is a 4-meter-high bronze statue, the „Giraldillo”.

Seville attractions

St. Paul’s Cathedral (London)

The cathedral of the Anglican Diocese of London and an important symbol of English national identity.

The current cathedral is the fifth on the site; its predecessor was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Construction of the new one began in 1675 based on Sir Christopher Wren’s designs and was completed in 1711.

The cathedral’s most famous feature is the dome. Inside, 30 meters high, is the Whispering Gallery. It’s famous for its special acoustics: a whisper along the wall can be clearly heard on the opposite side of the gallery.

Many famous personalities rest in the crypt, including Admiral Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, and Sir Christopher Wren.

Wat Arun (Bangkok)

One of Bangkok’s most iconic and beautiful Buddhist temples is located on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River, opposite the Royal Palace.

Its name means „Temple of Dawn”, referring to the sight of the first rays of the rising sun glinting off the temple’s decorations. Much of these come from Chinese porcelain plates and cups.

The central pagoda is a Khmer-style tower that symbolizes Mount Meru in Hindu-Buddhist cosmology. At its base are statues depicting mythological creatures and demons. We can climb to different levels of the tower via a steep staircase, offering a wonderful view.

Bangkok attractions, temples, markets

Milan Cathedral

The symbol of Milan is one of the masterpieces of Italian Gothic architecture.

Its construction lasted nearly six centuries, from 1386 until the end of the 19th century. The cathedral is the third-largest Catholic church in the world. From its roof, there’s a beautiful view of the city and the Alps on clear days.

Its exterior is decorated with more than 3,400 statues depicting saints, biblical figures, and mythological creatures. The roof of the church is crowned by 135 stone spires, the highest of which is the 108.5-meter main tower, topped by the famous „Madonnina” statue.

Milan attractions

Hagia Sophia (Istanbul)

One of the most outstanding works of Turkish architecture and a symbol of Istanbul.

Originally built as a Christian church in 537 during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was the largest church in the world for nearly a thousand years. Under Turkish rule, it was a mosque, then a museum, and since 2020, it has been functioning as a mosque again.

Its two distinctive features are the dome and the minarets. The nearly 56-meter-high dome has 40 windows. The mosque has four minarets that were added to the building during Ottoman rule. Their height and style differ slightly, reflecting the different times of their construction.

Istanbul attractions

Notre-Dame (Paris)

One of the most well-known among the numerous iconic buildings of the French capital.

The cathedral is an outstanding example of French Gothic architecture, particularly famous for its western facade, which features two monumental towers, rich sculptural decoration, and a large rose window.

Many people don’t know that Notre-Dame’s organ is a huge musical treasure. Many consider Notre-Dame’s 113-register, five-manual grand organ to be one of the best instruments in the world.

The reconstruction of the temple, which was severely damaged in the 2019 fire, is fortunately nearing its end, so it will soon reopen its doors to visitors.

Paris attractions

Golden Temple (India)

Officially named Harmandir Sahib, the holiest site of the Sikh religion is located in the Indian city of Amritsar.

It got its name from its upper level covered in gold, which was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the 19th century. The temple is located in the middle of an artificial lake, the Amrit Sarovar, accessed by a long marble bridge. The building’s four entrances symbolize that it’s open to people of all castes, religions, and nationalities.

Part of the complex is a huge community kitchen, the Langar, where free food is served daily to up to 100,000 pilgrims and visitors.

Best places in India

Cologne Cathedral

The construction of this Gothic cathedral lasted for several centuries, from 1248 to 1880. This resulted in a monumental church.

It’s Germany’s largest Gothic church and the world’s third-tallest cathedral, with twin towers reaching 157 meters high. Its interior is also impressive: it has five naves, and the vault of the main nave is 43 meters high.

The cathedral houses numerous artistic treasures, including the Shrine of the Three Kings, one of the most significant goldsmith works of the Middle Ages. The building has 10,000 square meters of stained glass windows, many of which are original, medieval creations. The western facade of the cathedral is particularly impressive, with its richly decorated portals and rose window.

Cologne attractions, museums

St. Patrick’s Cathedral (New York)

The Big Apple isn’t famous for its churches, but this one definitely stands out!

Located in the heart of Manhattan on Fifth Avenue, opposite the Rockefeller Center. The cathedral is impressive in its size: 123 meters long, 53 meters wide, and the towers reach 100 meters high. The building is made of white marble, creating a contrast with the surrounding skyscrapers.

The building contains 21 altars and 19 bells and can accommodate 2,200 people. It has been the site of many significant events, including the funeral service for President Kennedy’s brother, Robert F. Kennedy, in 1968.

Manhattan attractions

Sheikh Zayed Mosque (Abu Dhabi)

The most impressive building in the capital of the United Arab Emirates is named after the country’s first president, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The mosque is built of white Greek and Macedonian marble, decorated with gold, semi-precious stones, crystals, and ceramics. The main building is crowned by 82 domes, the largest of which is 85 meters high and 32.8 meters in diameter. It can accommodate up to 40,000 worshippers at once.

The mosque’s courtyard is lined with 1,000 columns, each decorated with intricate floral mosaic patterns. Inside the building is the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, covering an area of 5,700 square meters and weighing 47 tons. A huge chandelier hangs in the main prayer hall, weighing 12 tons and decorated with Swarovski crystals.

Abu Dhabi attractions

Salt Lake Temple (Salt Lake City)

One of the most important buildings of the Mormon Church is located in the capital of Utah.

The temple was built in Neo-Romanesque style, with granite walls up to 2.7 meters thick. The building is 68 meters high and has six towers, the tallest of which is 64 meters, topped with a gilded statue of the Angel Moroni.

Its peculiarity is that – unlike many other religious buildings – only members of the Mormon Church who meet certain church requirements can enter. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth seeing as it’s an impressive sight from the outside as well.

Senso-ji Temple (Tokyo)

One of the oldest and most famous Buddhist temples, which legend says was founded in 628.

The complex consists of several buildings, including the main hall, a five-story pagoda, and numerous smaller shrines. The main hall houses the temple’s holiest object, the Kannon statue, which is kept hidden from public view.

It’s the site of numerous festivals and celebrations, including the famous Sanja Matsuri in May. The temple is particularly spectacular in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom, and at night when the buildings are illuminated.

Tokyo attractions

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Germany is not only one of the leading countries in Europe, but in the world. Its history goes back a long way, symbolising its status as a great power. Many of its buildings and sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its castle and fortress architecture should be highlighted. Its land borders are Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France and the Benelux countries to the west.

Best places in Germany

Berlin

Berlin is a significant European center of politics, media, culture, and science, no wonder the capital is packed with attractions.

The city’s present is defined by its history: the Brandenburg Gate, a section of the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie, and the Holocaust Memorial all recall slices of the past.

Culture is also an integral part of the city. There are numerous museums in Berlin, most of which are on the specially designed Museum Island. Besides the „traditional” ones, several focus on the last hundred years, such as the Stasi Museum or the GDR Museum.

Berlin attractions

Black Forest

Located in southwestern Germany, it’s the country’s most important tourist region and most popular resort area. The Danube River also originates from here.

The name probably makes many think. The mountain range got its name from the dark color of the numerous coniferous trees found here.

There are countless waterfalls, gorges, and hiking trails in this area, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy active excursions.

Munich

The capital of Bavaria is one of the world’s most livable cities. It’s best known for Oktoberfest and the Bayern Munich football team.

Besides its charming city center, the Nymphenburg Palace attracts tourists. Built in the 17th century in Baroque style, both the building and its park are must-see sights in the city.

The aforementioned Oktoberfest is one of the world’s largest folk festivals, held since 1810. For this occasion, breweries brew special beers, which should be consumed cautiously due to their high alcohol content. After consuming two one-liter beers, I felt quite good. 🙂

Munich attractions

Best museums in Munich

Neuschwanstein Castle

Who hasn’t seen this wonderful castle in pictures! The 19th-century Bavarian castle is among the world’s most famous.

The building, located in the southern part of Germany in the municipality of Schwangau on a rock in the Pöllat Gorge, was commissioned by Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, to realize his childhood dreams. Due to his admiration and respect for Richard Wagner, some rooms and decorations in the castle are themed after the characters in Wagner’s operas.

Neuschwanstein inspired the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland, Los Angeles, and was the basis for the castle in the Cinderella animated film.

Saxon Switzerland National Park

The name might be misleading, as the park is not in Switzerland but on the border with the Czech Republic. It got its name because Swiss painters traveled here and named the region.

Its most famous natural formations are the sandstone table mountains. Among these, the most famous is Bastei, which rises about 200 meters above the Elbe. We can admire the rocks closely from a bridge.

Dresden

The city is often called the Florence of the Elbe, originally due to its art collections, Baroque and Mediterranean architecture, and its picturesque and climatically favorable location.

Dresden is internationally known as a cultural city, with numerous important buildings like the Baroque Zwinger, outstanding museums, and famous orchestras like the Saxon State Orchestra or the Kreuzchor.

Most of the city center we know today is reconstructed and renovated. This is due to the bombing of Dresden, which resulted in the complete destruction of the city center.

In 1434, one of the world’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets, the Dresdener Striezelmarkt, was established here.

Dresden attractions

Moritzburg Castle

If we’re in Dresden, we must not miss the castle 13 km away. It’s a Baroque hunting lodge built on an artificial island. A beautiful example of medieval castle architecture.

Prince Moritz of Saxony had it built in the 16th century. The castle was continuously beautified, and its park and several surrounding lakes were created in the first half of the 18th century. The main function of the castle was the nobility’s hunting, and we can still admire its splendor today.

There are more than 100 rooms, with a special feature being the leather wallpaper covering about 60 rooms. Both the castle and the park are open to visitors.

Königssee

Possibly Germany’s most beautiful lake, near the German-Austrian border. Known not only for its beauty but also for the echo that forms on the lake.

Electric boats operate on the lake, docking at two places. One of these is the St. Bartholomew’s Church, named after the saint with a special onion dome, beautifully situated on the lakeshore.

Cologne

Situated along the Rhine, Cologne, with its history spanning over 2000 years, is one of Germany’s oldest cities. This is reflected in the city’s beauty.

The city’s symbol is, of course, the Gothic cathedral, the Cologne Cathedral. A World Heritage site, it was built over a long period, from 1248 to 1880. Its towers are over 150 meters tall, and with its spires, it reaches a height of 157 meters, making it the second tallest church in Germany and the third tallest in the world.

Another distinctive religious building is the Great St. Martin Church. Its unique feature is a tower much taller than usual, significantly increasing the building’s overall height.

Cologne attractions, museums

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Located in Bavaria, near Nuremberg, in the valley of the Tauber River, this wonderful small town is part of the World Heritage.

Rothenburg is considered one of Germany’s most beautiful towns, thanks to its medieval old town. It is surrounded by a high, well-preserved medieval wall. You can walk along this wall for about 4 kilometers. Every building in the old town splendidly displays its medieval grandeur, beautifully restored.

Sanssouci Park, Potsdam

Located 40 km west of Berlin, in the city of Potsdam, this was a former Prussian royal palace complex.

The foundation of the palace and the accompanying park was laid down by Frederick the Great in 1744. Compared to contemporary European courts, it is a modest late Baroque or Rococo palace, regarded as a major work of Knobelsdorff, and was completed in two years. This residence and its gardens, often referred to as the „Prussian Versailles” were declared a part of the world’s cultural heritage by UNESCO in 1990.

The palace was smaller during Frederick the Great’s time and was gradually expanded with new parts. This was when the Peace Temple, the Orangery, and the Marly Garden were built in the garden.

If you are in Berlin and have a free day, it’s definitely worth taking a train to visit this place!

Mainau

A small island in the northern basin of Lake Constance, it is a botanical garden, a historical castle park, and a cultural center. It’s one of Germany’s most attractive tourist facilities.

The 45-hectare area is almost entirely filled with thousands of flowers, and the flowers in the park are arranged so that their wilting is not noticeable.

Another attraction is the butterfly house. Numerous colorful butterflies flutter in the air. Interestingly, the butterflies are extremely gentle and friendly.

Lake Constance and surroundings attractions, programs

Bamberg

Located not far from Nuremberg, the town’s historical center is the largest intact city core in Germany. It has been on the UNESCO German World Heritage list since 1993.

In the old town, numerous monuments can be seen. Among these, the most famous is the old town hall, which stands on a small island, providing a splendid sight. It currently houses a porcelain museum.

The cathedral is also worth mentioning. In the 13th-century church, there is the Bamberg Horseman statue and the marble tomb of Henry II.

Marburg

Officially known as Marburg an der Lahn, it is located halfway between Frankfurt and Kassel.

A charming town dominated by churches and a castle on a hillside, full of Gothic and Renaissance architectural memories. The preservation of the old monuments is due to the city’s decline between 1600 and 1850.

The counts’ castle was built on a 287-meter high hill and is visible from almost everywhere. It was the first residence of the counts of Hesse. It houses some of the largest Gothic halls in Central Europe in secular (non-ecclesiastical) architecture.

Famous for its medieval churches. Particularly worth mentioning is the Elisabeth Church, Germany’s oldest purely Gothic building and a symbol of the city. Here lies the final resting place of Paul von Hindenburg, the post-World War I president.

Schwerin Castle

Located in the center of Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, on one of the islands of Lake Schwerin. The castle is also referred to as the „Neuschwanstein of the North”.

The building, which also houses the state parliament, operates as a museum and was previously the seat of the Obotrites (a Western Slavic tribe) for centuries. Among more than 2000 castles and manors in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the castle is considered the most famous and magnificent.

It is one of Europe’s most significant romantic historicizing buildings, gaining its current form during multiple reconstructions and renovations between 1845 and 1857.

Zugspitze

At 2962 meters above sea level, it is Germany’s highest peak and also borders Austria.

The peak can be climbed from several directions, but due to storms, it’s not easy to conquer. The peak is accessible by two types of vehicles: a cogwheel train (Bavarian Zugspitze) or a cable car (Eibseeseilbahn).

Heidelberg

The town, located in the Neckar River valley, is famous for its old town, university, and the castle towering above the city.

Its old town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Its most beautiful sight is the church on Marktplatz, founded by Emperor Ruprecht in 1400. The tomb of the emperor and his wife can be seen in the church.

Near the city, on an extension of the Geisberg, stands the castle, most of which was destroyed in the 18th century. It has been gradually renovated since then, but a part is still in ruins. However, the view of the city is magnificent, and the castle is an imposing sight from below.

Hohenzollern Castle

Located 50 km south of Stuttgart, atop Hohenzollern Mountain at an elevation of 855 meters.

Originally built in the 11th century, it was destroyed in the 15th century. The castle gained its current form in the 19th century when it was rebuilt by King Frederick William IV of Prussia in an English neo-Gothic and Loire castle style. The last Prussian Crown Prince, William, was the only one to reside here. He and his wife, Crown Princess Cecilia, are still laid to rest here.

Not only its exterior but also its interior spaces are impressive. It has 140 rooms where you can admire golden chandeliers, sculptures, and cathedral-like ceilings.

Rakotzbrücke

This unusual bridge stands near the Polish border, in the vicinity of the town of Gablenz.

Known also as the Devil’s Bridge, it was built by the then-owner of the park, Friedrich Hermann Rötschke. The bridge is made of basalt, and its foundations resemble basalt columns.

The stone bridge spanning over Rakotzsee becomes a true Instagram spot under the right natural conditions. The nearly semi-circular bridge, reflecting on the water surface, appears to form a complete circle. It is forbidden to walk on the bridge, but this is not a big issue since the view from the side is truly spectacular.

Moselle Valley and its two most beautiful sights

The Moselle River, meandering between the Luxembourg border and Koblenz, is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany.

The most beautiful part of this hilly landscape is Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Cochem). In the town of the same name, the Moselle makes a 180-degree turn, where the castle rises above the town. Its interior is very beautiful, but its location and exterior are the real tourist attractions.

Another notable sight not far from the castle is Eltz Castle. Considered one of Germany’s most beautiful castles, it stands almost in its original state, as it was unaffected by any wars. The castle has been in the same family for 800 years, but today it is open to visitors.

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The city, situated on the Rhine, dates back to Roman times and, with a history spanning over 2000 years, is one of Germany’s oldest cities. Its university is one of the oldest in Europe. Today, Cologne is the economic, cultural, and historical center of the Rhineland.

In the Middle Ages, it was a major commercial route between Eastern and Western Europe. During the medieval and Renaissance periods, Cologne was a leading member of the Hanseatic League and one of the largest cities north of the Alps.

Cologne attractions

Cologne Cathedral

Officially known as St. Peter and St. Mary’s Cathedral, it is one of the most significant Christian monuments in the world.

Its towers stand over 150 meters tall, and with its spires, it reaches a height of 157 meters, making it the second tallest church in Germany and the third tallest in the world. Due to its extraordinary ecclesiastical, historical, and artistic significance, the building was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.

The Gothic structure began construction on August 15, 1248, the feast of the Assumption, according to the designs of the architect Gerhard von Rile, inspired by the Amiens Cathedral.

Its interior has uniquely withstood the ages. The stained glass windows, including the famous Bavarian windows in the south aisle, were donated by King Ludwig I of Bavaria. These depict scenes from the beginnings of Christianity, from Saint John the Baptist to Saint Stephen the Martyr.

Groß St. Martin

Another defining symbol in Cologne’s skyline, alongside the cathedral.

Built in Romanesque style, the church towers over the Rhine. Its triangular apse and massive square tower are visible from afar.

The church was constructed in the 12th century on the site of an earlier Merovingian church. It was severely damaged during World War II but has since been restored.

Hahnentor

One of the most important medieval city gates on the western side of the old town, part of the famous inner city wall.

Built in the 13th century as a key point in the city’s defense system. The gate’s name comes from a supposed rooster sculpture that once stood on one of its towers.

Today, it hosts cultural events and is also the venue for the Christmas market.

Ulrepforte

This gate stands on the southern side of the old town, also serving a defensive purpose.

The 13th-century stone watchtower has served multiple functions over the years, including customs duties. It suffered significant damage during World War II but has since been restored.

Chocolate Museum

Officially the Imhoff-Stollwerck Museum, it showcases the manufacture, history, and culture of chocolate.

Visitors can see objects related to chocolate production, such as the chocolate vending machines that were a novelty at the end of the 19th century. The museum also features special collections, such as gilded porcelain sets in which hot chocolate was served in past centuries.

A special part of the museum is dedicated to demonstrating the process of making chocolates. The museum also includes a gift shop and a confectionery where visitors can buy and taste the delicacies.

All information here!

4711 House

The building hosts a museum that displays the history and production process of cologne water.

Wilhelm Mülhens founded it at the end of the 18th century after a monk gave him the recipe for the miraculous water, known as Aqua Mirabilis. This later became known as Eau de Cologne, which quickly became popular for its unique fragrance composition, featuring citrus and medicinal effects. It is still produced according to the old recipe.

The building received the number 4711 during the French occupation, which later became the brand name. Since then, this number has become synonymous with high-quality cologne.

All information here!

Schnütgen Museum

The museum primarily exhibits medieval Christian religious art, but its collection spans from antiquity to modern times.

Alexander Schnütgen donated his collection to the city in 1906, and it has been growing ever since. The museum has been housed in the Romanesque church of St. Cäcilien since 1956, which was expanded with new buildings in 2010.

The exhibits include items such as a Romanesque tympanum, large wooden crosses, and early bronze crosses.

All information here!

Ludwig Museum

The museum emphasizes modern and contemporary art.

It was founded in 1976 by the collector couple Peter and Irene Ludwig, who supported the institution with significant donations. The collection ranges from the 1900s to the present day, including works by famous artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein.

All information here!

Cologne Cable Car

Introduced in 1957, it is considered the first cable car over a river in Europe.

The gondola cableway runs over the Rhine River, above the Zoobrücke. The cabin offers a spectacular view of the old town area to the south.

All information here!

Hohe Strasse

Cologne’s shopping street, where numerous shops and restaurants are located.

This nearly 1 km long street runs north-south, starting from the cathedral up to St. Maria im Capitol basilica.

St. Gereon’s Church

Among the city’s Romanesque-style churches, this one is also noteworthy. Named after St. Gereon, who, according to legend, was a Roman soldier and the city’s first Christian martyr.

It is a prominent example of Cologne Romanesque. Significant parts include the remnants of a late ancient dome sanctuary from the mid-4th century. With the Trier Cathedral and the Basilica of Constantine in Trier, it is one of the oldest still functioning churches in present-day Germany.

Botanical Garden

Officially known as Flora und Botanischer Garten Köln, it is home to over 10,000 plant species.

Founded in the mid-19th century, today it spans a vast area of approximately 11.5 hectares. Visitors can explore plants from various climatic zones, including tropical and subtropical species.

Cologne Zoo

Founded in 1860, it is one of Germany’s oldest zoos, home to more than 700 species.

Notable attractions include the elephant house, the big cat biotope, and the rainforest house, where visitors can get up close with the tropical wildlife.

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