How many UNESCO World Heritage Sites have you visited? Els Slots, the founder of the website World Heritage Sites, has been to 991 of the 1248 sites listed by UNESCO. Her fascination with these destinations began in 1997.
Slots created the website in 2000 to connect with other travelers eager to visit several locations, and it turns out she’s not the only one taking such ambitious trips.
Interest in UNESCO travel has been growing, with companies like Road Scholar, Holland America, Viking Cruises, and Windstar Cruises creating itineraries that highlight these locations. “We’ve increased our capacity among these 48 UNESCO programs by 41 percent this year, and we’ll increase capacity by 35 percent in 2026,” says Lizzie Gerecitano, senior public relations specialist for Road Scholar.
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Why UNESCO sites are sparking interest
“The pandemic really changed the way people think about travel,” says Meghan Flynn, associate vice president of program strategy at Road Scholar. Instead of merely sightseeing travelers are seeking experiences that offer deeper meaning. “We’ve seen post pandemic that people are looking for transformational journeys and places a little bit more off the beaten path.”
(This city in the shadow of Venice is filled with UNESCO treasures)
Melanie Lewis Carsjens, director of shore excursion operations and product development at Holland America Line, also cites the pandemic’s impact. “As we came out of the pandemic, we noticed that our demographic seemed to lean more into small group, immersive educational experiences,” she says. She explains that UNESCO sites provide the authentic cultural immersions travelers are seeking.
How visiting UNESCO sites can infuse meaning into your trip
Much like a Michelin star that indicates a distinguished restaurant, a UNESCO World Heritage designation highlights places of “outstanding universal value to humanity” by recognizing their exceptional cultural or natural significance, according to the website. To make the cut, a site must meet specific criteria, with the final decision made by the International UNESCO World Heritage Committee after a thorough review.
“Our guests tend to be collectors, but not of things. [They are] collectors of memories, experiences [and] emotions. UNESCO really leans into that,” says Lewis Carsjens.
UNESCO sites are often memorable, leaving a lasting impression. “Visiting a UNESCO site elevates the travel experience from sightseeing to cultural immersion,” says Richard Marnell, executive vice president of marketing at Viking Cruises.
Tips for visiting UNESCO sites
One of the reasons people like UNESCO sites is because they are well preserved, so it’s important to be a respectful visitor. “Whenever you’re visiting any historic place, be mindful of your presence,” says Lewis Carsjens. “Leave only footsteps and take only photographs.”
Sarah Scoltock, director of public relations at Windstar Cruises, advises visiting in spring, fall, or winter to avoid peak summer crowds. However, keep in mind that some locations, like those in Norway, may see their largest crowds during winter. It’s best to research the specific location before your trip to discover when the fewest crowds will be present.
Joel Baldwin, co-founder of the World Heritage Journey website and a member of World Heritage Site, says he often finds visiting tips through the community. He adds that Slots’ website is a helpful resource because members share advice about their visits. “They can offer tips on questions like, ‘Do you need a car? What kind of public transport can you use to get there?’” he says.
(UNESCO recognizes more than just historical sites—here are 5 protected health customs)
Six lesser-known UNESCO sites worth visiting
One feature of the UNESCO list is that it helps travelers discover places they might never have heard about. An added benefit of visiting unknown locations is that they tend to be less crowded. Here are some expert-approved places worth adding to your itinerary.
Trogir, Croatia: This Croatian town features a mix of Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. “It’s a bit like a mini-Venice,” says Graham Carter, the co-founder of Unforgettable Travel, a luxury travel company. “It’s got a really beautiful river.”
Amphitheatre of El Jem, Tunisia: In North Africa, you can visit one of the largest ancient Roman amphitheaters in the world, with room for 35,000 spectators. It was modeled after the infamous Colosseum in Rome that can hold about 50,000 people.
Stone Circles of Senegambia, Gambia: There are four different ancient stone circles that look similar to Stonehenge at this West African site. Like Stonehenge, there is mystery surrounding the function of the stones. This location is an example of untouched natural beauty that most people have never seen, Flynn says.
(The secret history of Stonehenge)
Manú National Park, Peru: Located in Peru between the Tropical Andes and the Amazon Basin, this site is well-known among scientists due to its vast biodiversity. The remote location has enabled it to be naturally protected.
Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam: This well-preserved trading port located on the Thu Bon River dates to the 15th century. Carter, who spent his honeymoon in Vietnam, says this town was the most memorable one he visited. “It’s beautiful in the evening with the river and lanterns,” he says.
Struve Geodetic Arc: If you’re interested in a quirky UNESCO site, Slots suggests visiting this one. She explains that some sites are included on the list for their scientific importance, and this fits that criterion. “It’s just a point in Europe, and it stretches all the way from Norway to Russia,” she says.
Cheryl Maguire is an award-winning freelance journalist covering topics related to travel, science, mental health and parenting. She holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, AARP, Business Insider, SUCCESS Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA and an active member of SATW. You can find her on Bluesky @CherylMaguire