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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A small part of its territory lies in Europe, the larger part in western Asia. The European part borders Greece and Bulgaria. Its culture is very diverse, combining Eastern and Western traditions, due to its particular location and history.

Best places in Turkey

Istanbul

Turkey’s capital is situated on both banks of the Bosphorus, which separates Europe from Asia.

The city has a rich historical heritage, as it was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire under the name Constantinople, and later the capital of the Ottoman Empire. Its unique location, architectural monuments, and artistic creations found in its museums and palaces have made it a popular destination for tourists.

There are many world-famous attractions in the city. The most well-known is, of course, the Hagia Sophia, which is one of the significant works of ancient architecture. Additionally, the Topkapi Palace should be highlighted, which is not coincidentally among the most beautiful palaces in the world.

Istanbul attractions

Cappadocia

The wonderful region located in central Turkey is famous for its breathtaking geological formations and historical significance.

Its landscape was shaped by volcanic activity, resulting in unique cone-shaped rocks and cave dwellings characterizing the area.

Popular and unique attractions in the world include the numerous, oddly shaped „Fairy Chimneys”, the moonlike landscape of the Göreme valley, Göreme National Park, rock churches, the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, Zelve valley, Avanos (pottery), Uchisar rock fortress, Ihlara valley, and Soglani.

Hot air balloon rides are a must-have experience for visitors, featured in almost all photos.

Fethiye

The city located in the southwestern part of the country, on the Mediterranean coast, is surrounded by beautiful beaches.

The white sandy beach of nearby Ölüdeniz, the Blue Lagoon, is one of Turkey’s most iconic beaches. Its name means Dead Sea, referring to its calm waters that rarely have waves.

Fethiye’s historical attractions include the Lycian rock tombs dating back to the 4th century BC. The most impressive tomb is the Tomb of Amyntas, which towers over the city.

Amasya

The city in north-central Turkey is popular for its beautiful setting, historic Turkish wooden houses, and rich historical heritage.

Its most valuable sights are the old Ottoman-era mansions. One of the most elegant such buildings is the Hazeranlar House, built in 1872 by Defterdar Hasan Talat Efendi for his sister, Hazeran.

Another significant monument is the rock-cut tombs towering above the city, where the kings of Pontus were buried.

The city has given rulers, artists, and scientists to the world, and an important phase of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s life is also associated with it. This shows that Amasya is also an historically important settlement.

Izmir

Turkey’s third-largest city is also called the pearl of the Aegean Sea.

The ancient Roman agora, located in the historical center of the city, is an impressive archaeological site. Its main square is Konak Square, where the famous Clock Tower stands. Built in 1901, the tower is one of the symbols of the city. The most beautiful part of the city is the seaside promenade, Kordonboyu, where you can find many restaurants and bars along with a wonderful view.

It hosts popular and renowned festivals every year. The most famous is the İzmir International Festival, where many world-famous performers, orchestras, and dance ensembles perform. Another important event is the İzmir European Jazz Festival.

Mardin

It is a meeting point of several cultures and religions, reflected in its historical buildings and diverse population.

Its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, creating a special atmosphere with its narrow, winding streets and closely packed sandstone houses. Most of the buildings bear the stylistic features of Ottoman and Syrian Orthodox architecture.

Among its religious buildings, the most important is the Deyrulzafaran Monastery. This ancient Syrian Orthodox structure was built in the 5th century and is considered one of the oldest monasteries in the Christian world.

Antalya

One of the country’s most popular tourist destinations and the center of the Turkish Riviera.

Antalya’s historical center, Kaleiçi, awaits visitors with narrow, cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era houses, and historical buildings. The old town contains numerous monuments, of which the most spectacular is Hadrian’s Gate. This impressive three-arched gate was built in 130 AD in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

Düden Waterfalls

Located near Antalya, it is one of the most impressive natural sights in the region. The Düden River forms two separate waterfalls, the so-called Upper Düden and Lower Düden Waterfalls.

At the Upper Düden Waterfall, water plunges from a cave, which you can walk behind, providing a unique experience. The park has walkways, picnic areas, and viewpoints.

The Lower Düden Waterfall is located right on the beach, where the Düden River plunges water from a steep cliff into the sea. The sight is particularly impressive as the water falls from more than 40 meters high.

Pamukkale

Literally meaning „cotton castle”, it is one of the world’s rare wonders and part of UNESCO World Heritage.

The snow-white limestone pools were created by hot spring water rich in calcium hydrogen carbonate and carbon dioxide, about 35°C, gushing from underground and flowing down the hillside. The place was visited as a spa even in ancient times.

There are several hot springs in the vicinity of Pamukkale, which are also used by newly built spas and hotels. Because of this, it has become one of the destinations of modern health tourism.

Ankara

The capital of Turkey since 1923, it is the second-largest city after Istanbul.

Ankara is not a traditional tourist destination in the conventional sense. Cultural tourism is significant, with museums standing out. The historical and archaeological museums here display numerous valuable, ancient Anatolian artifacts.

Its most famous attraction is the Anıtkabir, located on a hill in the Anittepe district. This is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who was the founder, first president, and greatest reformer of the Turkish Republic. In the adjacent museum, you can find Atatürk’s memorabilia: his letters, personal items, photographs, and a wax figure of the president.

In the old part of the city, there are numerous historical monuments, such as ancient Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Turkish style buildings and narrow, winding streets. Among the notable sights are the Temple of Augustus and the Hacı Bayram Mosque.

Ankara attractions, weather

Kurşunlu Waterfall

Located near Antalya, it is part of Kurşunlu National Park.

The waterfall plunges from a height of 18 meters and continues into seven small lakes. It is surrounded by lush, green forest that is home to numerous plant and animal species.

Ephesus

An ancient Greek city on the Aegean coast, it is one of the most important and best-preserved archaeological sites in the world.

Founded in the 10th century BC, it was one of the largest and most important cities in Asia Minor during Roman times. It was famous for its Temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Unfortunately, only a few columns remain today, but it was once a huge and impressive structure.

One of the most impressive buildings is the Library of Celsus. It originally contained 12,000 scrolls and conceals a sarcophagus where Celsus, the library’s namesake, rests.

The theater is the best-preserved building in Ephesus. It hosted not only theatrical performances but also public gatherings and community events. Its auditorium is 50 meters in diameter, carved into a hillside. It could accommodate 24,000 people.

Konya

The city is famous for its rich history, religious and cultural heritage, especially due to the traditions of Sufi mysticism and the Mevlevi dervishes.

The Mevlana Museum is Konya’s most famous attraction and one of the most visited places in Turkey. It houses the tomb of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, the famous Persian poet and Sufi mystic, and founder of the Mevlevi dervish order.

Enthusiasts of architecture and applied arts consider Konya a treasure trove of Seljuk art. The best example of this is the Alaeddin Hill in the city center, which is home to the Seljuk-era Alaeddin Mosque.

Mount Nemrut

Located in the southeastern part, it is one of the country’s most important and spectacular archaeological sites and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

The mountain was the most important sanctuary and burial site of the ancient Kingdom of Commagene. King Antiochus I built his own mausoleum and temples to ensure divine status for himself.

The statues on the mountaintop are monumental in size and depict King Antiochus I and various gods. These gods include Apollo, Zeus, Hercules, and Tyche.

The mountain is easily accessible from the city of Adıyaman, which can be reached by car or local tours.

Safranbolu

It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and one of the best places in Turkey where visitors can gain insight into the everyday life and architectural style of the Ottoman era.

Most of the buildings in the old town date from the 18th and 19th centuries and were built in traditional Ottoman style, which includes a combination of wood and stone.

The city has more than a thousand traditional Ottoman houses, many of which now function as museums, guesthouses, or restaurants. These houses are known for their distinctive architectural style, characterized by prominent wooden balconies, ornate window frames, and tiled roofs.

It gets its name from saffron, which has been cultivated in the area for centuries. Saffron products, such as sweets and soaps, can be purchased in local markets and shops.

Trabzon

The city on the Black Sea coast was once an important trading center of the Byzantine Empire. It was also known as the capital of the Empire of Trebizond in the Middle Ages.

Its most famous attraction is the Ayasofya Museum, also known as Hagia Sophia. The 13th-century Byzantine church later functioned as a mosque and is now a museum. The church’s beautiful frescoes and mosaics are impressive examples of Byzantine art.

The Atatürk Köşkü is an elegant villa built for Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. The villa is located in a beautiful garden and now operates as a museum, showcasing Atatürk’s life and work.

Lake Van

Turkey’s largest lake is located in the Eastern Anatolia region. The salty, volcanic lake was formed during the eruption of Mount Nemrut volcano.

Lake Van has exceptionally clear, blue water, and the surrounding mountains offer a breathtaking view. Its area is about 3,755 square kilometers, and its deepest point is about 450 meters.

Akdamar Island is one of its most popular tourist attractions. The Armenian Church of the Holy Cross, built in the 10th century, is located on the island. The church is famous for its impressive stone carvings and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. The building is an outstanding example of Armenian architecture.

Aspendos

The ancient city located in Antalya province is famous for its impressively preserved Roman theater.

It is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman theaters in the world, built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius in the 2nd century. It can accommodate about 15,000 spectators and has excellent acoustics, still allowing for concerts and performances today.

Another significant structure is the aqueduct. This is a channel bridge built in the 2nd century to ensure water supply. It carried water from the mountains to the city of Aspendos for more than 15 kilometers, with the help of numerous bridges.

A Best places in Turkey – 18 amazing attractions bejegyzés először Tips for journey-én jelent meg.

Needless to say, an endless list of castles could be mentioned. And of course, there are some that didn’t make the list, though they certainly deserve a spot. But choices had to be made…

15 most beautiful castles in the world

Neuschwanstein Castle

Perched on a rock ledge above Alpsee and Pöllat Gorge, this castle is Germany’s most photographed building and one of the top tourist destinations.

Located in the southern part of the country, it was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria to realize his childhood dreams. Admiration for Richard Wagner led him to decorate some rooms and fixtures with characters from the composer’s operas.

The castle’s design was inspired by medieval knightly castles. Its fairy-tale appearance also inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella castles.

Château de Chambord

Built in the 16th century in France’s Loire Valley, this castle mixes Renaissance artistry with traditional medieval French architecture, making it one of the most beautiful French castles. Chambord is the largest of the Loire Valley castles.

It served both representative and residential purposes along with several other castles. Its dimensions are impressive: the north facade is 156 meters long, and the side facade is 117 meters. The castle contains 426 rooms, 282 fireplaces, 77 staircases, and 800 sculpted columns.

Its double helix staircase in the main building is considered an architectural masterpiece, twining upward through three floors.

The castle is surrounded by a 5250-hectare (about 1000 hectares accessible to the public) deer park.

Best places in Loire Valley

Hearst Castle

While the USA is not known for its castles, this one is worth mentioning. Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, on a hill 8 kilometers from the Pacific Ocean.

The complex was built by American media mogul William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and served as his residence. The entire complex covers more than 8300 m². The largest house, Casa Grande, has about 115 rooms over four floors.

The buildings blend numerous architectural styles. The main building is largely inspired by the 16th-century Spanish cathedral (Iglesia de Santa Maria la Mayor, Ronda). Here, Hearst displayed part of his rich art collection.

Windsor Castle

The world’s largest castle still in use, dating from the time of William the Conqueror. The castle covers approximately 45,000 m².

It is one of the most important residences for the British royal family. Most kings and queens of England and the United Kingdom have had an influence on the castle’s construction and development. Over the centuries, it has been expanded with vast halls and grand apartments.

It covers 52,609 square meters, combining the characteristics of a fortress, a palace, and a town. It primarily exhibits Georgian and Victorian styles but shows Gothic features in a modern setting.

Its most famous part is St George’s Chapel, the chosen burial site for the British royal family and the venue for numerous royal weddings.

Alhambra

A Moorish fortress and palace in Granada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984.

The complex includes parts created by Moors and Christians: the Alcazaba, the Nasrid Palaces, and the Generalife are the work of Arabs, while the Palace of Charles V and the Church of St. Mary were built by Christian Spaniards.

Alhambra’s intricate decorations, delicate carved plasterwork, and richly tiled surfaces are exceptionally beautiful. This complex is a standout example of Islamic art.

Granada attractions

Himeji Castle

Japan’s – and arguably the world’s – most beautiful and strongest fortress castle. Known as the White Heron due to its brilliant white walls seen from afar, it was among the first Japanese sites to be included in the World Heritage list in 1993.

This 17th-century building is an excellent example of the development of Japanese castle architecture and defense technologies. Its main keep, which appears five-storied from the outside but has seven stories inside, is connected to three other towers, surrounded by three outer courtyards.

Schönbrunn Palace

Not only one of Vienna’s but also one of Austria’s most famous historical monuments and tourist attractions.

This Baroque-style palace was built in the 1700s and became the summer residence of the Habsburg rulers during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa.

The palace has over 1400 rooms, richly decorated interiors, and historic furnishings. It blends Baroque, Rococo, and Biedermeier styles, creating a harmonious ensemble.

Its park is dominated by the French formal garden style, integrated with natural landscape elements. Attractions include the Neptune Fountain, the famous maze, and the Rose Garden, which showcases hundreds of rose varieties. One of the most notable buildings is the Gloriette, an imposing pavilion on a hilltop offering a splendid panorama of the palace and Vienna.

Vienna attractions

Versailles Palace

Located about 20 kilometers west of Paris, it is one of the world’s most famous castles, now operating as a museum and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Originally built by King Louis XIV in the 17th century as a symbol of French royal power and wealth, it was the residence of the French kings from 1682 until the Revolution in 1789.

The garden significantly enhances the palace’s importance and grandeur. Consisting of three parts, the garden spans approximately 800 hectares and exemplifies the French formal garden style, featuring stunning symmetry, precisely trimmed hedges, sculptures, and grand water features.

Topkapi Palace

Located in Istanbul, it served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire between 1465 and 1853.

The palace complex was built in the mid-15th century by order of Sultan Mehmed. It includes numerous courtyards, buildings, and gardens, which are impressive examples of Islamic and Turkish architectural styles.

Today, it operates as a museum where visitors can view rich Ottoman treasures, ancient weapons, porcelain and glassware, as well as the personal belongings of the sultans.

Istanbul attractions

Casa Loma

Located in Toronto, Canada, this Neo-Gothic style building with its lavish decorations, imposing towers, and extensive sculptures recalls true European castles.

Among its 98 rooms, you can find a large armory, a grand ballroom, and a secret tunnel. Once the home of some of Canada’s wealthiest people, it now serves as a museum and event center.

Toronto attractions

Royal Palace of Caserta

Formerly the residence of the Bourbon kings of Naples, located near Naples in Caserta.

It was the largest European construction of the 18th century. With its grandeur, dimensions, and associated gardens, it is one of the most grand and largest royal palaces in Europe.

Its interiors are a mix of Baroque and Rococo styles. The building contains 1200 rooms and 56 staircases. The facade features three entrance halls, with 243 windows. The most distinguished interior part is the Appartamento Reale, the royal apartment, which is richly decorated with frescoes, gilded adornments, and refined stucco.

The garden is also spectacular, stretching for several kilometers with waterfalls, fountains, and meticulously maintained vegetation. The Great Waterfall at the end of the garden starts at the highest point of the park and descends towards the palace, providing a breathtaking view.

Royal Palace of Caserta: Italy’s Versailles and the Masterpiece of the Bourbons

Mysore Palace

Located in the city of Mysore, India, this palace is one of the grandest and most visited royal palaces in the country. The building, rich in complex forms, is a prime example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, which mixes Muslim and Rajput styles with Gothic decorations. It features finely curved arches, domes, projecting bay windows, and columns ranging from Hindu to Byzantine styles.

Its interiors are adorned with masterfully carved doors, delicate candle holders, stained glass ceilings, and wall frescoes depicting scenes from Indian epics. Notable rooms include the ornately ceilinged Durbar Hall with numerous carved pillars and the Kalyana Mantapa or wedding pavilion, which has a floor covered with enameled tiles.

During the Dasara festival, the entire building and surrounding areas are brilliantly illuminated, and various cultural events are held on the grounds in front of the palace.

Balmoral Castle

This estate in Scotland was purchased by Queen Victoria and her spouse, Prince Albert, and remains a favorite summer residence of the royal family.

Though referred to as a castle, it appears and functions more like a Victorian-era, neo-Gothic inspired, Scottish baronial style country house. The seven-story tower is inspired by medieval defensive tower houses, while the corner towers evoke 16th-century French chateau architecture. Additional Scottish baronial features at Balmoral include stepped gables, dormer windows, and a crenellated porte-cochère.

The castle’s significance is highlighted by its appearance on the reverse side of the Royal Bank of Scotland’s £100 note and as the place where Queen Elizabeth II passed away in 2022.

The most beautiful castles and fortresses in Scotland

Magdalena Palace

This iconic building in Santander, northern Spain, was used as a royal summer residence in the 20th century.

The vast palace, stretching nearly 90 meters in an east-west direction, faces south and is located on the highest point of the Magdalena Peninsula, from which it gets its name.

The palace blends elements of Neo-Renaissance and English styles.

Potala Palace

Perched atop the rocky Red Hill west of Lhasa city, at an elevation of 3,630 meters, stands this massive complex.

It once served as the seat of the Tibetan government and residence of the country’s leader, the Dalai Lama. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage site in 1994, describing it as „simultaneously a fortress, temple, monastery, and school, the epicenter of political and religious life in the region, and a splendid example of Tibetan art at its most sophisticated”.

The 13-story structure is approximately 118 meters high, covering an area of 130,000 square meters, and reportedly consists of exactly 999 rooms.

Today, Potala Palace serves as a museum and pilgrimage site. Its labyrinthine rooms and sanctuaries are connected by numerous doors, corridors, and staircases. Its halls and long galleries are adorned with brilliant wall paintings and colorful silk embroideries of Tibetan Buddhist art, along with nearly two hundred thousand sculptures.

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Turkey’s most populous settlement, it is a cultural, artistic, and economic hub, and was the capital until 1923.

The city spans the Bosporus and the Sea of Marmara, and although only a smaller part of it is in Europe, it is still considered a European city. Its unique location, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architectural relics, as well as the artistic works in its museums and palaces, have made it a favorite destination for tourists.

Istanbul attractions

Hagia Sophia

Istanbul’s most famous building and the top destination for every tourist.

Built in the 6th century by Emperor Constantine I, it was constructed in just five years. From 1453, after Constantinople fell to the Ottomans, until 1934 it served as a mosque, then as a museum until 2020, and since July 2020 it has functioned again as a mosque.

The building is massive: the main dome is 31 meters in diameter and 55.6 meters high, with a total floor area of 7570 m2.

Opening hours: April 15 – October 1, 9 AM-7 PM; October 1 – April 15, 9 AM-5 PM. Closed on Mondays!

Admission is free!

Blue Mosque

Originally named Sultan Ahmed Mosque, it is located opposite Hagia Sophia. Its name comes from the blue tiles covering the interior walls.

One notable difference from Hagia Sophia is its six minarets. Only two mosques in Turkey have this feature (the other is in Adana).

The mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 by order of Sultan Ahmed I. The complex includes the tomb of the Sultan and his wife, Kösem Sultan, a madrasah, and a hospital. The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions, one of the world’s most famous buildings, and part of the World Heritage.

Suleymaniye Mosque

Unsurprisingly, this mosque is also a must-see among Istanbul’s attractions! The city’s second-largest mosque, it was commissioned by Sultan Suleiman I.

The mosque measures 59×58 meters, with the main dome 53 meters high and 27.25 meters in diameter. In the garden, you can find the mausoleums of Suleiman I and his wife (Hürrem), and daughter (Mihrimah).

Galata Tower

Istanbul’s most famous lookout, originally built as a lighthouse in the 6th century.

The Romanesque building stands 66.9 meters tall with a diameter of 16.45 meters, and wall thickness of 3.75 meters. It also has a café on top, offering a 360-degree view of Istanbul.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Dolmabahçe Palace

Located on the western, European side of the Bosporus, north of Beyoğlu.

It served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1856 to 1923. Built by Sultan Abdul-Mecid I, it was completed in 1856. The palace contains 285 rooms and 46 halls.

The palace comprises three parts: the Mabeyn-i Hümâyûn (men’s quarters), Muayede Salonu (the ceremonial halls), and the Harem-i Hümâyûn (the harem or the Sultan’s family quarters).

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Mondays!

Topkapı Palace

The administrative center of the Ottoman Empire from 1465 to 1853, it was commissioned by Sultan Mehmed II. It is one of the world’s most famous palaces.

Located between the Golden Horn and the Sea of Marmara at the so-called Sarayburnu (Seraglio Point), the palace consists of several smaller buildings surrounded by four courtyards. It currently operates as a museum, showcasing porcelain and glassware, Ottoman-era clothing, weapons, miniatures, calligraphic documents, and jewels.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Tuesdays!

Sunken Palace

Also known as the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnıcı), it’s one of the largest among the several hundred ancient water reservoirs. Built in 532 by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it was in use until the end of the 16th century.

The 143×54 meter hall is supported by 336 marble columns, each over 8 meters tall. The walls of the hall are 4 meters thick.

The cistern was featured in the 2016 movie „Inferno”.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Ortaköy Mosque

A mid-19th-century Ottoman mosque in the neo-baroque style, located on the Bosphorus shore.

It’s worth visiting the Ortaköy district for its vibrant atmosphere. Numerous cafés, restaurants await visitors, and the mosque offers a great view across the river.

Taksim Square

Istanbul’s main square and a popular meeting place for locals. Here stands the Republic Monument.

The İstiklal Avenue, the city’s main street, starts southwest from here. It’s lined with numerous shops, cafés, restaurants, and famous buildings like Madame Tussauds and the historic Çiçek Pasajı passage.

Galata Bridge

This bridge connects the Golden Horn with the old city (Sultanahmet). It’s worth walking from Galata Tower to Hagia Sophia across the bridge.

The lower part of the bridge hosts a fish market and seafood restaurants. Boat trips also depart from here.

Archaeological Museum

Istanbul’s most significant museum, where the Ancient Orient section displays about 15,000 artifacts, mainly from ancient Mesopotamia and pre-Greek Anatolia.

The museum offers a broad spectrum of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and other Anatolian peoples’ legacies, dating back to the sixth century BC.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi)

One of Istanbul’s iconic buildings, located on a small island on the Bosphorus shore. Its location makes it a popular attraction.

It functioned as a lighthouse for a long time. Today, it houses a café and restaurant, offering a magnificent view of the city from its upper terrace.

Rumelihisarı

The Rumeli Fortress or castle is a complex built on a hillside along the Bosphorus, northwest of the city center.

Built in the 1450s during Sultan Mehmed II’s reign, it was intended for the conquest of Constantinople. After the city’s capture, it lost its military role, later serving as a prison and open-air theater. It now operates as a museum.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here! Closed on Mondays!

Seven Towers

Known in Turkish as Yedikule Hisarı, located southwest of the city center on the Sea of Marmara shore.

The fortress’s most famous part is the Porta Aurea (Golden Gate), over 1600 years old. Unfortunately, it’s quite dilapidated, but renovation works have recently started.

It functioned as a prison for centuries, housing several Hungarian notables: Bálint Török, Gergely Bornemissza, Pál Béldi.

Miniatürk

The park displays miniature replicas of Turkey’s attractions.

With more than 130 models at a 1:25 scale, it’s one of the largest parks of its kind in the world. It features buildings from beyond Turkey’s borders, such as the Gül Baba tomb in Budapest.

Entrance fees and opening hours can be found here!

Grand Bazaar

Not far from Hagia Sophia, it’s one of the world’s largest covered markets.

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