A Guide to the 7 Wonders of the Modern World

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For major fans of world travel, visiting the Seven Wonders of the Modern World might be an ultimate goal. In fact, it’s one of the ways I planned which places I’m going to see and in what order. The new seven wonders were declared in 2007, not to be confused with the Ancient Wonders of the World, in which only the pyramids of Giza are still standing.

Whether you are already planning to visit the wonders or you came across this article to look for upcoming travel inspiration, this post will help you navigate your journey. I’m going to touch on each location and offer tips for visiting the Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

Great Wall of China

What is it? Spanning 13,171 miles, the most popular parts and many of the remaining sections of the Great Wall of China were built from 1368-1644 by the Ming dynasty. However, some of the wall was built as early as the 7th century BC. Its main goal for construction was defense but it was also useful for trade regulation and immigration control. It includes watchtowers for security and beacon towers that enable communication, making it a key player in the military defense system.

Where is it? Northern China

How do I visit? Because the wall is the longest in the world, it stretches across nine provinces. You couldn’t possibly see it all, but there are a few sections that are highly recommended. One of the sections is Mutianyu, which is located an hour and a half from Beijing. This is actually one of the best preserved sections. Another choice is Jiankou, a steep yet picturesque location that serves as a great spot for hikers. Simatai is home to 20 watchtowers and 35 beacon towers, and it’s fairly simple to traverse.

Where to Stay

The three wall locations I listed are within three hours of Beijing, and since there are many other things to do in the city, I recommend staying there during your trip and possibly booking a tour of the area.

The Mandarin Oriental Wangfujing Hotel is a five-star hotel located within walking distance of several popular attractions. It features a restaurant, pool, and rooftop terrace. A bit more affordable, the Kerry Hotel has two restaurants with a bar area, as well as a large indoor pool and fitness area. Another five-star choice is the Great Wall Hotel, which comes at a surprisingly low price for what it's worth.

Chichen Itza

What is it? Chichen Itza was a city built by the Mayans. The population of the city was very diverse, and the architecture was no different. Many buildings of Chichen Itza still remain, but the most popular is without a doubt El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan. The amount of steps on El Castillo is equal to 365, designed to represent a calendar year. Twice a year when the equinox occurs, the sun creates an image of a snake slithering down the northern staircase as it sets. Thousands of people travel to Chichen Itza each year to see this sight.

Where is it? Yucatan, Mexico

How do I visit? Chichen Itza is a very possible and common day trip from Cancun. Tourists also take day trips from the capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida. From these locations, you have the option to book guided tours or rent transportation. Furthermore, you also have the option of taking a cruise to Cancun and booking an excursion to Chichen Itza.

Where to Stay

If you're traveling from Cancun:

The Grand Fiesta Americana is an all-inclusive resort with five restaurants and two poolside bars, while the Marriott Cancun Resort offers a similar experience for a tad bit cheaper. Near the casino, the ibis Cancun Centro is a good choice for more budget-based travelers.

If you're booking a trip from Merida:

The Casa Lecanda is very small with only seven guestrooms but it truly makes you feel like you're living the island life. If you're looking for something more modern, the Hyatt Regency is located in the city center and features a modern look for a great price. Another choice is the Hilton Garden Inn - it's super affordable and a household name.

Christ the Redeemer

What is it? Constructed between 1922 and 1931, Christ the Redeemer is a 98-foot-tall Art Deco statue erected at the peak of the Corcovado Mountain. It was created by a Polish-French sculptor named Paul Landowski and built by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Coasta and French engineer Albert Caquot. The face was created by Gheorghe Leonida. The statue is made of soapstone and reinforced concrete, and today, it is known as a cultural icon and a worldwide symbol of Christianity.

Where is it? Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

How do I visit? Many people choose to take the Corcovado Rack Railway to the statue. Others decide to book guided tours to Christ the Redeemer so they don’t have to book transportation themselves. The most time consuming way, yet one of the most spectacular ways is by following a path hidden behind Parque Lage. On the hike, you will be immersed in nature, but it isn’t necessarily easy. The path features steep inclines that may be difficult for some travelers.

Where to Stay

Boasting five stars, the JW Marriott Hotel is near the beautiful Copacabana Beach. If you're interested in beachfront options, the Windsor California Hotel features two restaurants, and the Hotel Bandeirantes is remarkably affordable.

Colosseum

What is it? The colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheater in the world, built from 70 to 80 AD by the emperor Vespasian and his heir Titus. It held an average audience of 65,000 people and it was designed to house public spectacles such as gladiator contests and mock sea battles. As years passed by, it began being used for religious purposes. Some of the colosseum was ruined due to robbery and natural disaster, but for the most part, tourists can still see it in all its glory. Around 4 million people visit this wonder of the modern world each year.

Where is it? Rome, Italy

How do I visit? The colosseum is quite easy to visit. There is usually a recognizable line outside where you can queue to buy a ticket. Depending on where you’re staying in Rome, you may be able to walk to it. If you’re staying further away, the metro makes transportation super easy. You can take the Roma Termini to the Colosseo stop and the colosseum is literally right there when you walk out of the station.

Where to Stay

The Palazzo Manfredi is an incredible choice with direct views of the colosseum. Another choice touted as comfortable and friendly by travelers, Hotel Lancelot is just a five minute walk from your destination. Camplus Hotel Roma Centro is friendlier on your wallet, but it's relatively close to the Rome metro station.

Machu Picchu

What is it? This Inca citadel was built in 1450 and rediscovered in 1911 by an American historian, Hiram Bingham. The main structures are Intihuatana, the Temple of the Sun, and the Room of the Three Windows. Luckily, many of the other buildings have been restored over the years. The area was used as a royal estate for 80 years before being abandoned, and it's believed that about 750 people lived there.

Where is it? Peru

How do I visit? Most people visiting Machu Picchu stay in Cusco and take a train to Aguas Calientes. From there, you can hike or take a bus. The bus takes about 30 minutes while the hike lasts about two hours.

Where to Stay

If great views are a must, Antigua Casona San Blas has a beautiful terrace and a bar and restaurant. The Hilton Garden Inn provides a trusted accommodation in Cusco's city center, while the Union Hotel Cusco is located similarly featuring a nice courtyard and an authentic charm.

Petra

What is it? Petra served as the Nabataean capital as early as the 4th century BC, making it the oldest wonder of the modern world. It’s a city carved into rock, and it’s located between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea. At its height, the population was somewhere between 10,000 and 30,000. In 106 AD, Romans defeated the Nabateans and Petra joined Arabia. It was a known trade route, especially for the spice trade, until an earthquake decreased its importance. Excavations in 1993 revealed more of the city, and today, it's a hot tourist spot.

Where is it? Ma’an Governorate, Jordan

How do I visit? People typically stay right outside of Petra in Wadi Musa, which is in walking distance of the visitor center. If your hotel is located a bit further out, it likely offers shuttle services.

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Where to Stay

The Petra Guest House is practically knocking on Petra's door, and it's aesthetic is one-of-a-kind, including a cave bar and magnificent garden. Another location with great views is the P Quattro Relax Hotel, but it's only stocked with three rooms. For a unique experience, choose the Little Petra Bedouin Camp, described as a luxury tent.

Taj Mahal

What is it? Commissioned in 1632, this mausoleum was the idea of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who requested it to house the tomb of his wife Mumatz Mahal. Today, Shah Jahan’s tomb can be found in the Taj Mahal as well. It was finished in 1653 and its construction equaled the cost of 916 million US dollars. It’s designed to exhibit Persian and Mughal architecture, with the tomb being the central focus of the building.

Where is it? Agra, India

How do I visit? When visiting India, a lot of tourists stay in Delhi, but some actually stay in Agra where the Taj Mahal is located. When staying in Delhi, it’s feasible to take a train to Agra, although you could also book a day tour that takes care of the transportation for you. You could also stay in Jaipur and travel from there to Agra. Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur make up the Golden Triangle of India, which is a known tourist circuit that is all connected by railway.

Where to Stay

For this section, I am listing hotels in Agra because of its proximity to the Taj Mahal. One option, The Oberoi Amarvilas, is just a 15-minute walk away, and it's appearance is nothing short of stunning. The ITC Mughal is a gorgeous resort by the rail station, and Hotel Daawat Palace is small, though it makes up for it in charm and great views.

Visiting the Seven Wonders of the Modern World is a huge achievement for any traveler, and it’s something I’m extremely excited to master during my trips. If you've visited any or all of these places, I'd love to hear your stories in our comments.