As a seasoned travel expert who's explored many of these iconic sites, I've always trusted TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice awards for their data-driven insights from millions of travelers. Their 2016 rankings reveal the world's most popular monuments—and the results might surprise you.
Claiming the top spot is Peru's breathtaking Machu Picchu, the ultimate Inca citadel perched high in the Andes. In second place, the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE, dazzles with its marble halls and gold accents. Rounding out the podium is Cambodia's Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, a sprawling temple complex from the Khmer Empire.
France misses the global top 10, but Italy shines with St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. India's Taj Mahal is a perennial favorite, while Spain's Cordoba Cathedral and Russia's Cathedral of the Savior on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg also rank highly. Completing the list: Spain's Alhambra in Granada, the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, and Italy's Duomo (Cathedral of the Nativity of the Holy Virgin) in Milan.
But could the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame have made it? Let's dive into Europe.
In Europe, St. Peter's Basilica leads, followed by Cordoba Cathedral, St. Petersburg's Savior Cathedral, Granada's Alhambra, Milan's Duomo, Istanbul's Hagia Sophia (now a museum), Brussels' Grand Place, Paris' Eiffel Tower (8th), Notre-Dame de Paris (9th), and Athens' Acropolis. A strong showing for European treasures.
Zooming in on France, where national pride runs high: The Eiffel Tower towers at #1, predictably. Notre-Dame de Paris takes silver—its Gothic spires are unforgettable. Bronze goes to the opulent Palais Garnier, Paris Opera House, a Belle Époque masterpiece.
Other French highlights include Paris' Sainte-Chapelle, Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Arc de Triomphe, Pont Alexandre III, Strasbourg's Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Palace of Versailles, and Marseille's Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde. From Paris to Provence, France's monuments offer endless inspiration for your next trip.
