Top 7 countries to visit if you love history and ancient wonders

From ancient cities and royal palaces to temples, forts and archaeological sites, these countries offer a journey through different periods of human history. Here are seven destinations where you can explore famous landmarks, old civilisations and UNESCO-listed sites that continue to tell stories from the past.

Egypt is one of the world's best destinations for travellers interested in ancient history. Visit the Pyramids of Giza and explore the ancient sites around Memphis. Travel to Luxor to see the temples and tombs linked to ancient Thebes, including the Valley of the Kings. Abu Simbel, Historic Cairo and the monuments between Abu Simbel and Philae also offer more places to explore.

Italy offers history across its cities, from the remains of ancient Rome to Renaissance art and old churches. In Rome, visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon, while Florence offers museums and landmarks linked to the Renaissance. Pompeii gives visitors a chance to walk through an ancient Roman city, while Venice, Verona and Naples add more layers to an itinerary built around history and culture. Italy has 60 UNESCO World Heritage sites, according to its official tourism website.

Greece is closely linked to the history of ancient civilisation, democracy, philosophy and the Olympic Games. Start in Athens with the Acropolis and its ancient monuments, then visit Delphi, Olympia and the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Tiryns. Travellers can also explore ancient Delos, medieval Rhodes and Byzantine monuments in other parts of the country. Greece has 21 properties on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

India offers travellers a long journey through ancient, medieval and colonial history. Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, explore the Buddhist caves of Ajanta and Ellora, or see the ruins of Hampi. Other major stops include Sanchi, Fatehpur Sikri, Humayun's Tomb and Nalanda. India now has 45 UNESCO World Heritage properties, including 37 cultural sites, according to UNESCO and government information.

Türkiye brings together sites linked to several ancient civilisations and empires. Travellers can explore the Historic Areas of Istanbul, including monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods. Other major stops include Troy, Ephesus, Göbekli Tepe, Hattusha and the ancient sites of Pergamon. Cappadocia, with its rock-cut structures, and the archaeological remains across Anatolia make the country a strong choice for history-focused travel.

Japan offers a different kind of historical journey, with ancient temples, imperial traditions, castles and preserved old towns. Kyoto is a key stop for its historic temples and shrines, while Nara offers important Buddhist monuments. Visit Himeji Castle, the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, and Hiroshima's Peace Memorial. Nikko and sites linked to the Ryukyu Kingdom offer more opportunities to explore Japan's long cultural history.

France offers history through royal palaces, medieval monuments, Roman remains and major museums. Visit the Palace of Versailles to explore the country's royal past, or travel to Mont-Saint-Michel and Chartres Cathedral for medieval history. History lovers can also explore Roman monuments in Arles and Orange, prehistoric caves in the Vézère Valley and historic sites across Paris. The Louvre adds another major stop for art and history enthusiasts.