Beautiful must-see cities in the world

There are about 20 countries around the world with more than 2.5 million cities built. Each of them has its own inherent charm and charm, because you can fall in love with the city not only for its sights, expensive restaurants or grandiose skyscrapers, but also because of the pleasant memories left in it. It is difficult to name the most beautiful city on the planet, it is still a matter of taste, but we have compiled the top of the most visited places, the popularity of which is off scale, and thousands of tourists strive to get there again and again.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city shrouded in a veil of romance, a city of magnificent canals and renowned artists, a place to go to enjoy the splendor of the ancient architecture of the Netherlands, to visit the famous red light district and the world's only tulip museum.

In translation, the name of the city is translated as “dam on the Amstel river”. The city consists of 4 half rings, they are surrounded on all sides by canals and connected by bridges, it is not for nothing that Amsterdam is called the second Venice.

Amsterdam is considered not only one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but also one of the most important European ports. City canals were built in the 17th century, and were mainly intended for the diamond trade.

Thrill-seekers will surely appreciate the local entertainment and nightlife. Everyone knows that soft drugs are legalized in the Netherlands. Hashish and marijuana can be tasted in special coffee shops, of which there are more than a hundred in the city.

Well, and, of course, many people are interested in the famous red light district, where thousands of priestesses of love live and work, while paying large taxes to the city treasury.

More worth visiting:

• The Rijksmuseum is the grand museum of the history of art in the Netherlands.
• Keukenhof is a huge flower museum in the vicinity of the city.
• Maiderslot is a medieval fortress, which has been perfectly preserved to this day.
• The Royal Palace is the official seat of the country.
• Dam is the main square of Amsterdam.
• Madame Tussauds is a branch of the world's most famous exhibition of wax figures.

Venice

Venice is another European city, where thousands of tourists go every year, fascinated by the atmosphere of the Renaissance, described in books and filmed in films. There are so many tourists in Venice that the local authorities are afraid of serious destruction under such an onslaught, for the same reason more and more indigenous people are leaving their homes.

Venice is built on 122 islands connected by bridges and canals (there are about 150 of them in total), which serve as streets, and instead of cars, there are gandols. Almost every building in Venice is an amazing monument of medieval architecture, it is not surprising that the entire old part of the city is under the protection of UNESCO. The architecture of Venice is very peculiar, given that the canal-streets in some parts of the city are so narrow that you can swim, holding on to the walls of houses with one hand.

The foundation of the houses consists of two parts - metal piles and a stone foundation, this structure is completely under water. According to the calculations of specialists, in a couple of decades, buildings will begin to collapse, so a special program has been created to artificially regulate water.

Venice is considered to be the cultural capital of Italy. Dozens of film festivals, art exhibitions, costume balls and carnivals are held here every year. Most visited attractions:

• Basilica of San Marco is a cathedral, which in the Middle Ages was considered the religious and political center of the city.
• The Doge's Palace - a monument of Gothic architecture, was the main administrative building of Venice.
• Campanile San Marco is a watchtower with a bell tower.
• Palazzo Santa Sofia is a grandiose Venetian-style castle on the banks of the Grande Canal.
• The Venice Carnival is the most important cultural event in Italy.

Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful cities of the world, it is not for nothing that it is called the "Pearl of the Danube".

Budapest is a relatively young city and the history of its creation is very interesting, because it appeared in 1873 as a result of the merger of two cities (western - Buda and eastern - Pest), stretching along the two banks of the Danube. This feature determines the uniqueness of the culture and architecture of Budapest, it is really a city of contrasts. On the one hand, the measuredness and tranquility of Buda, streets wandering along the slopes of the hills, medieval monuments and buildings, magnificent castles, fortresses and thermal baths. On the other, business and vibrant Pest, the center of economic and political life with its Parliament, modern shops, museums and restaurants. These two historical parts of the city are connected by bridges of amazing beauty, sparkling bright lights in the night.

Today Budapest is considered one of the centers of European shopping, shopping centers and brand stores here for every taste and budget.

The main attractions of Budapest:

• Buda Castle is the main historical and cultural heritage of the country in the very center of the city.
• The chain bridge connecting the two parts of the city is the hallmark of Budapest. The bridge was erected in 1849, three years later it was decorated with cast-iron sculptures of lions. It underwent reconstruction after the war.
• The Fisherman's Bastion was built on the site of the old fish market as a backdrop for the church.
• The building of the Hungarian Parliament in the neo-Gothic style was erected on the Danube coast after the unification of the two cities.
• Matthias Church is part of the architectural complex of Buda Castle, this is its main component. An interesting fact is that this is almost the only building in the Gothic style in Hungary.

London

Amazing and extraordinary London, the first and only capital of Great Britain, the heart of the European state. London is the largest population in Europe and is its financial and cultural center. The mysterious foggy Albion dictates the rules and laws of politics, business and even fashion. About 10 million tourists visit it annually. Travelers invariably attracted by the original flavor of the city, its ancient architecture, the opportunity to visit famous art museums and art galleries, as well as a wide range of entertainment.

List all attractions London is not possible, but usually the tourist route looks like this:

• The Tower of London is a 900 year old fortress that has witnessed all the historical twists and turns of the state. At various times, it housed a residence, a prison and even a zoo. At the moment, there is a museum here.
• Westminster Abbey is the main church in England, built in the Gothic style. From the moment of its construction, it was closely associated with the royal palace, it was here that the coronations of monarchs took place.
• Buckingham Palace is another royal residence that serves as a venue for official ceremonies.
• Tower Bridge.
• Big Ben is a clock tower, a symbol of London and the whole of Great Britain.
• Trafalgar Square.
• Madame Tussauds Museum - wax museum.
• British Museum, whose exhibits are dedicated to the history of mankind.
• Tate Modern is the national gallery of contemporary art.
• Covent Garden covered markets.

Bruges

The Belgian town of Bruges, even by European standards, is considered small - only about 120 thousand inhabitants, however, this does not detract from its architectural merits, at the moment the city is the main tourist center of the province of West Flanders, and of the whole country as a whole.

The name of the city is translated as "harbor"; it was not for nothing that Bruges was a major port and center of trade in the Middle Ages. Surprisingly, since then, the appearance of the city has changed little and more resembles a medieval open-air museum. Tourists here have a feeling of unreality, and all thanks to the romantic flavor of the past - quiet cobbled streets, houses in the Gothic and Romanesque styles, a leisurely flow of life, old churches and temples. A special scenic view of Bruges is given by the canals, which merge together here.

Carnivals and masquerades are often held in the city; it is here that the participants of the processions look most organic in traditional costumes.

Must see:

• ancient city gates;
• Boniface Bridge;
• neo-gothic building of the city court;
• Tower of the Virgin;
• Market square;
• bell tower Belfort.

Shanghai

Shanghai ("City by the Sea") is one of the largest and most densely populated metropolitan areas in China and throughout Asia. Shanghai has never been the cultural capital of China, its purpose is somewhat different - it is the focus of the country's scientific, technical, economic, political and industrial life, in addition, the city is considered the most important port.

The industry is making leaps and bounds here. The most developed industries are automotive, metallurgy and light industry. Branches and offices of the largest corporations are located in the city.

Day and night in Shanghai, full-blooded life boils and rages, it is difficult to believe that a few decades ago this place was a poor fishing village. The city is now renowned for its upmarket restaurants, branded shops and luxury hotels. Despite everything, Shanghai remains surprisingly cozy and welcoming. West and East in this city coexist quite harmoniously, and skyscrapers in no way overshadow the beauty of the original Chinese architecture.

Speaking about the sights of Shanghai, it is impossible not to mention some of them:

• The Shanghai TV Tower is a symbol of the city, its height is about 500 meters, it ranks 5th in height among all the towers in the world;
• Shanghai World Financial Center - a majestic structure especially beautiful in the evening;
• Shanghai Oceanarium - the largest in Asia;
• Jinmao Skyscraper - a place for lovers of panoramic views;
• Shanghai Old City.

Warsaw

Polish Warsaw is a city with an interesting, colorful, but at the same time tragic history. During its existence, it experienced a lot, managed to visit several states, but, perhaps, the most terrible blow was the Second World War, when almost the entire historical center was destroyed. After the end of the war, Warsaw was literally revived from the ruins, collecting and reconstructing piece by piece, using old drawings and engravings.

To date, Warsaw is the most large-scale project for the reconstruction of medieval monuments after almost complete destruction, but this does not diminish its historical value in comparison with other European cities. Warsaw still carries a unique flavor of the past, a special atmosphere of a fairy tale.

Arriving in the city, be sure to visit:

• Stare Miasto is the oldest Sight cities. It took decades to restore this part of the city. Now it looks exactly like centuries ago: winding streets, red tiled roofs and a unique atmosphere.
• On the Market Square, in the very heart of Warsaw, there is still a bustle of shops, local artists and cabbies.
• Palace Square is the place from which the tourist route of the city's guests usually begins.
• The Royal Castle, which now houses a popular museum.
• Krakowskie Przedmiecie is a whole street with several ancient sites, including a medieval castle and a state university.
• The Chopin Museum is the building where the great composer gave his first concerts.

Prague

Each city is unique in its own way, in any of them you will find sights that are dear to your heart, and you will want to return there again. But Prague is a city, one of a kind, here on an area of ​​only 500 sq. kilometers, so many ancient architectural monuments, temples, Gothic castles, cozy pubs, houses, squares have been erected that it seems unrealistic. Each building and stone has its own unique history. Great poets, artists and writers came to Prague for inspiration, but in all their works the city was described in completely different ways, the capital of the Czech Republic is so unique and multifaceted.

If you look at the city from above, you will have an amazing view - thousands of red-tiled roofs, Gothic cathedrals and numerous towers and turrets, it is not for nothing that Prague was dubbed the “City of a Thousand Towers”. Every narrow street here is saturated with an atmosphere of mysticism, there are many legends and myths about evil spirits, maybe because most Czechs themselves believe in it.

Where you should definitely look while in Prague:

1. Charles Bridge is an old medieval building, currently the bridge is a pedestrian one.
2. Wenceslas Square is the central square of the Novo Mesto district, a cultural and business center.
3. Old Town Square is the main square of the Staro Mesto district, just like in the 12th century, it is full of life here, the square is surrounded by ancient monuments in the Gothic and Baroque styles.
4. The old royal palace is the former residence of the Czech rulers.
5. Vitus Cathedral is the main cathedral in Warsaw.
6. The Dancing House is a building in the style of deconstructivism, the highlight of the city.

Sydney

During the British colonial period, Sydney was a godforsaken place on the territory of the smallest continent. Criminals, English prisoners who lived in very difficult conditions and constantly clashed with the government were exiled here.

During the gold rush, the population of Sydney began to grow rapidly, new parks, museums, and various cultural institutions were opened.

Finally, at the beginning of the 20th century, Sydney gained its long-awaited freedom, attractions and the buildings began to grow like mushrooms after the rain.

But all the most striking changes took place in the city at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. In the year when Sydney hosted the guests of the Olympics, the whole world became known for the paradise next to the bay, its friendly inhabitants and breathtaking beauty of nature.

Today Sydney remains the pearl of the green continent, it is one of the most prosperous cities in the world, where virgin nature, golden beaches coexist with skyscrapers, business districts and the largest offices. The standard of living is constantly growing, and with it the population is growing.

Local Attractions:

• Port Jackson Bay, today a national park is built on the natural part of the bay.
• The Sydney Opera House is a symbol of the city, the roof of the building resembles flying sails.
• The Harbor Bridge is the largest arched structure in the world.
• Queen Victoria Building - Built in a classic Victorian style.
• Cathedral of the Virgin Mary - the city's Catholic cathedral.
• Sydney TV Tower is the tallest building in Sydney.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the ultra-modern and fast-growing capital of Malaysia. It bizarrely combines Victorian style, Islamic architecture and hi-tech so beloved in Asia. Several religions, cultures, beliefs and ethnicities have mixed in the metropolis. Highways give way to green islands of forests, and then bustling markets, skyscrapers and the usual bustle of a big city open up again.

Who would have thought that on the site of a large city there was relatively recently a small mining village, whose inhabitants mined tin ore. Over time, the excavations ended, but this did not prevent the city from actively developing. But even in our time, Kuala Lumpur carefully guards the witnesses of a bygone era - buildings in the Victorian style.

The most significant objects of modern architecture, the famous Petronas Twin Towers, are the tallest buildings in the world. To get there, you will have to sign up for a queue that will stretch for a couple of days.

Other things to look at:

• The palace of Sultan Abdul-Samad, which combines the seemingly incongruous - the style of the Victorian era and the local Moorish style.
• Jamek is a Mavitan temple complex.
• Sultan Ethan Negara's palace.
• National Science Center Kuala Lumpur.
• National Lake Park.

Florence

Florence is a flourishing city of Italy, even in the Middle Ages it was considered the second after the capital, which absorbed the best of the then existing Roman Empire. The first mention of the city dates back to 59 BC. Then Gaius Julius Caesar ordered the creation of a colony on the Arno River and named it Florence. Since then, the city has grown rapidly, and in the Middle Ages it became one of the centers of the cultural life of Europe, in which the masterpieces of the Renaissance were created.

Along with Rome, Venice and Milan, Florence is one of the favorite tourist routes, and all thanks to the abundance old landmarks, magnificent monuments of architecture and a special romantic atmosphere. At various times, the city created imperishable works by artists and writers.

Cathedral Square in the historic part of the city makes Florence even more mysterious and charming; on its territory was built the building of the Cathedral - Santa Maria del Fiori, made in an elegant Gothic style. The bell tower of Giotto and the Baptistery of San Giovanni favorably set off the beauty of the cathedral and complement the ensemble.

Other significant places in Florence:

• Piazzale Michelangelo - a picturesque panorama of the city opens from it.
• Palazzo Vecchio is a luxurious medieval castle.
• Palazzo Pitti is the largest castle in Florence and also an art museum.
• Basilica of Santa Croce, on the territory of which famous figures of Italy are buried.
• The Uffizi Gallery is the trademark of Florence.
• House-Museum of Dante Alighieri, the creator of the imperishable poem "The Divine Comedy".

Kyoto

"City of a Thousand Temples" - Kyoto, is one of the most popular cities in Japan among tourists. Once Kyoto was the capital of the Land of the Rising Sun and had a completely different name - Heianke ("City of Peace and Tranquility").

For several millennia, Kyoto was the main center of the political and spiritual life of Japan, and from the 8th century it became the capital and official residence of the emperor.

Now the city is home to about 2 thousand people. Kyoto is known to the world thanks to the only remaining school of geisha, a huge number of ancient churches, parks and palaces, many of which are protected by UNESCO. And also the fact that during the Second World War the city miraculously escaped the atomic bombings, otherwise it would have suffered the fate of the notorious Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

In addition to architectural monuments, there are many modern buildings in Kyoto, but they all fit into the landscape very organically. Temple complexes and churches seem to grow out of the water surface or hills, complementing the overall landscape.

Popular places among tourists:

• One of the most beautiful castles in Japan - Nijo, powerful but graceful at the same time, is located in the very center of the city.
• The tallest tower in Kyoto, with a spire, its height reaches 131 meters.
• The amazingly sophisticated Fushimi Castle.
• Kyoto National Museum is one of the country's art museums. The museum fund is about 12 thousand objects.
• Ginkaku-ji Temple ("Golden Pavilion").
• Ryoan-ji Temple ("Temple of the Resting Dragon").
• The Ponto Cho District is a Japanese geisha quarter that has preserved traditional architecture and culture.

Pagan

The ancient city of Pagan is located in the Republic of Myanmar (Burma). This is not the most hyped a tourist route however, the “City of a Thousand Temples” is very interesting from the point of view of cultural studies and archeology. Today, Pagan is being actively restored and studied by all kinds of specialists.

Objectively speaking, the modern city of Bagan does not exist, there is only Bagan airport and several nearby villages. Once this city was the capital of the kingdom of the same name, rich and prosperous. It was built in 841 on the Ayeyarwaddy River as a small defensive fortification. Since then, the city has grown and acquired ever greater strategic importance. After King Anoratha became the ruler of the state, Pagan became a cultural and political center. At the same time, Buddhism established itself as a state religion, and a grandiose temple construction began. Today Pagan is an area of ​​40 square kilometers, on which about 2000 pagodas, temples and monasteries were built. The time of their construction dates back to the 11-12 centuries. Many of them have been destroyed and plundered as a result of Mongol invasions.

Despite the fact that the temples of Bagan are not included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites for political reasons, the city is the main center of pilgrimage for the Southeast region.

The largest pagodas and temples:

• The Shwezigon Pagoda is the only local landmark that has preserved its golden decoration.
• Ananda Temple - Named after a disciple of Buddha.
• The Tabinnyu temple is the highest in Bagan, its height is about 66 meters.
• Dhammayanji Temple - resembles a pyramid and gives the impression of a building from another civilization.

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is the cultural center of the northern part of Thailand and the capital of its province of the same name, second only to Bangkok in importance.

Along the entire perimeter, Chiang Mai is surrounded by a large artificial moat, as the locals once escaped from the Burmese raids. Today, the moat has no practical value, however, it is the only one in all of Thailand, which makes it an attraction along with temples and other ancient monuments.

Chiang Mai fully corresponds to the status of the cultural capital; hundreds of years later, its architectural appearance, of course, has changed, but has not lost its historical outlines. Tourists who have been here talk about the special pacifying atmosphere of the town, there are no noisy crowds of travelers and annoying guides. Peace and serenity reign everywhere.

You can take a walk in the gardens and parks, look into the zoo with pandas, go to the hot healing springs. Well, and, of course, visit numerous temples, there are about three hundred of them in the city. The most famous, perhaps, can be considered the magnificent and at the same time frightening White Temple. Work on the construction of the temple complex is still going on and is designed for another 50 years.

Ciudad Bolivar

The Venezuelan city of Ciudad Bolivar is nestled on the picturesque Orinoco River. Once the city was an important port of the country, ships loaded with a wide variety of goods moored to its shores, and now it is a port for the eastern regions of Venezuela. The brightly colored houses give the city a special charm.

Modern Ciudad Bolivar may not be as famous as the most beautiful cities Europe, however, thanks to its unique history and culture, claims to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The original name of the city was completely different, long and difficult to pronounce, but most often it was called simply - Angostura. For many years Angostura was a military base under the leadership of General Bolivar, the national hero of Venezuela, a fighter for the country's independence from the Spanish colonialists. In the middle of the 19th century, the city was given a new name in honor of him.

Significant places of the city:

• Colonial buildings - Cathedral, Congress Building, Casa de San Isidora.
• Modern Art Museum.
• restored fortress of the Hawk.
• Bolivar Museum.
• the Angostura bridge.