From the first moment you book that plane ticket, your mind goes to all of the iconic places, events, and symbols that have made you turn your eyes toward your destination of choice in the first place.
Going to Paris? You probably can’t wait to see the Eiffel Tower light up at night.
Visiting Bali? Chances are you’re dying to take that perfect picture swinging above the lush jungles.
Traveling to Rome? You’ll finally learn how it feels to walk in the footsteps of some of history’s greatest figures.
As you can imagine, these are exactly the types of attractions that affect our decision when it comes to choosing where to head off next, which is why Distinctive Bat set out to discover the world’s most iconic landmarks and symbols that just about all travelers want to experience at least once in a lifetime.
These 10 attractions, in particular, were the ones that thousands of U.S. travelers singled out as the best of the best:
10. Bullfighting in Spain
While there’s a lot we know and love about Spain, nothing captures the country’s energetic, colorful, and passionate spirit quite like bullfighting.
While now a bit polarizing, the practice is still one of the country’s most beloved and recognizable traditions, not only because it’s one of the most authentic art forms modern-day travelers will get to experience but also because it evokes the strongest emotions in everyone lucky enough to witness it.
9. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
In a surprising turn of events, Rome’s Colosseum isn’t the most recognizable building in Italy – the Leaning Tower of Pisa is.
Between its unique lean, gorgeous spiral staircase and jaw-dropping vantage point, though, it’s no wonder so many travelers are dying to see the Italian gem at least once in their lives.
8. The Kangaroo of Australia
While most other global destinations are known either for their iconic buildings or tradition-filled events, the world’s only country-continent comes represented in the international travel scene by its most beloved animal – the kangaroo.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not only talking about the pouched mammal here.
The Australian kangaroo serves as a symbol of the region’s unbelievable biodiversity and endemic wildlife, which are two of the biggest reasons why so many Americans are willing to go through those 15+ hour flights.
7. Mariachi Bands from Mexico
Between its otherworldly beaches, legendary nightlife, and unmistakable cuisine, Mexico is not only one of the most beloved travel destinations but also one of the most easily recognizable countries on Earth.
At the forefront of its international fame, though, is none other than the iconic mariachi bands, whose music filling the local plazas and restaurants has become the No. 1 experience travelers imagine when they think of a Mexican getaway.
6. Pizza from Italy
This will probably be the shortest paragraph in the entire piece since there’s no need for me to tell you how wildly popular and timelessly iconic pizza is.
If there’s one traveler in this world who’s gone to Italy and hasn’t, at the very least, thought about trying one of the world’s most beloved dishes right from the source, I’ve yet to meet them – so, foodies, this is your sign to finally embark on that dream Italian getaway.
5. The Eiffel Tower, France
If you expected the Eiffel Tower to claim the no. 1 spot today, you’re not alone – but the world is just so filled with iconic attractions that even the most recognizable symbol of the most visited country on Earth has stiff competition when it comes to popularity.
With that said, the wrought-iron lattice tower built in the late 1800s is still as captivating as ever, and definitely one of the main reasons why travelers just can’t seem to get enough of France and its stunning capital.
4. The Royal Guard of the United Kingdom
If you’ve ever doubted the Royal Family’s popularity among U.S. audiences, these next two entries are here to prove you wrong.
The Royal Guard of the United Kingdom, in particular, has officially become a stand-alone attraction for which many, many of us are traveling across the Atlantic – be it the distinctive red tunics, the bearskin hats, or the aura of tradition, there’s just something about these uniforms that we can’t seem to get enough of.
3. King Charles III and the Royal Family of the United Kingdom
Of course, no UK attraction is more recognizable, iconic, or with traveling for than the Royal Family (embodied by Buckingham Palace) itself.
And now that a new king has ascended to the throne, people are more eager than ever to experience the family’s history, grandeur, and drama firsthand.
2. The Great Sphinx of Giza, Egypt
The attractions that occupy the first two spots on today’s list speak about one of 2024’s biggest trends – Egypt is becoming more popular than ever.
The Great Sphinx of Giza has nabbed the runner-up place, and with its enigmatic smile, massive size, and imposing presence, it’s easy to see why.
1. The Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a single landmark as noteworthy or historically important as the Great Pyramid of Giza, which many consider to be the last surviving wonder of the ancient world.
Built over 4,500 years ago, the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and ambition of ancient Egyptians are still visible in these structures – and still endlessly talked about.
No wonder people are flocking to Egypt in millions just to catch a glimpse!
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