5 Best Cities to Visit for History Buffs

If youre a history buff with a love for traveling, you know the world offers endless learning opportunities. Whether youre a seasoned traveler or just booking your first flight, it can be easy to immerse yourself in another culture or moment in time.

You may get lost in a museum, stumble upon ancient ruins, or taste the cuisine of another culture. One thing’s for sure — you’re in for an incredible experience.

Theres no better way to learn about historical events than seeing where they took place. You dont need to settle for documentaries when you can give yourself the most meaningful history lesson of all.

Here are 5 travel destinations for curious history buffs.

Rome, Italy

As the capital of Italy, Rome is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its expansive history and cultural influences, many historians and tourists alike find themselves enamored by the city.

The Colosseum is Romes most popular tourist attraction and is known as one of the 7 Wonders of the World. After hosting gladiator battles and animal fighting for 4 centuries, the Colosseum revitalized Rome after its first civil war. It provided an iconic form of entertainment for the Romans.

You can also visit the Pantheon, which served as a temple for Romes Pagan gods. Its the best-preserved ancient building in the city, and entrance is free.

If youre a foodie, consider visiting Romes oldest restaurant, La Campana for a meal rich in history and flavor.

Edinburgh, Scotland

When planning a trip to Europe, travelers often skip Edinburgh, but its steep history and vast cultural sites make it a destination like no other.

The Old Town is the most historic part of the city, offering narrow cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Visit one of the many old-fashioned pubs for an authentic trip to the past.

History buffs should visit Edinburgh Castle to learn its rich history — it was the home to generations of Scottish royals. See the crown jewels, the French prisons, and the most famous cannon in the United Kingdom.

For a stunning view of the city, visit the Scott Monument and climb the 287 stairs for an incomparable sight. Just make sure youre ready for the trek!

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto once served as the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years. Its one of the oldest, and the third largest city in the country. Home to 17 UNESCO world heritage sites, Kyoto is known for its unique blend of modern civilization and ancient traditions.

Visit Arashiyama during the day, and enjoy the riverside area at the foot of the mountains and a peaceful bamboo forest. In the evening, visit Kyotos best-known geisha district, Gion, and wander through a maze of backstreets lit with lanterns. 

If youre looking to explore one of Kyoto’s many temples and shrines, consider visiting the Fushimi Inari shrine, and wander through countless vermillion torii gates.

Kyoto is known for its old-fashioned, traditional cuisine. If you want an authentic taste of Japan, Kyoto offers that and more.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is known as a popular vacation spot in the states, but you may not know how history shaped it into the city it is today.

As the citys infrastructure developed, thousands of Chinese Laborers began working on the Central Pacific Railroad. This led to San Franciscos Chinatown being the largest Chinese settlement outside of Asia. 

For the most authentic Chinese cuisine outside the “Red Dragon,” visit Chinatown. If youre lucky, you may catch one of the many cultural festivals held throughout the year.

San Francisco is also known for its activism. The Castro District was the center of the gay rights movement in the city, and holds both the Castro Theatre and the GLBT Historic Museum.

Machu Pichu, Peru

Considered one of the 7 Wonders of the World, Machu Pichu is located in Southern Peru and is only accessible via train or a 4-day hike!

Machu Pichu is a historically significant cultural center for the Inca civilization. It was abandoned when the Spanish invaded, and the ancient ruins now draw visitors from all over the world.

Each structure carried a religious, agricultural, astronomical or ceremonial purpose. The lives of the Incas are engraved in the complex architecture, and nature seamlessly blends into stone.

Travel back to ancient times as you walk through the city the Incas once called home. You’ll see their historical and cultural contributions first-hand.

Experience History for Yourself

The best way to truly immerse yourself in the history of another country is to travel and experience it to the fullest. Transport yourself to another time and soak it all in — be it one of the 7 Wonders of the World or your next bucket list destination.

Planning a trip can be a bit complicated, but it doesnt have to be. CloudBlue can help you make your perfect vacation package and help you save money along the way. You can enjoy your trip knowing youre in good hands.

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