It’s not just about beaches and resorts anymore, it’s also about going back in time. There are cities all around the world that used to be important commerce centers, capitals or holy places but are now forgotten. Some are partially wrecked while others are very well-preserved yet they all tell the stories of lost civilizations.
These old places stand still, reminding us of how strong and creative people can be. Modern skylines, on the other hand, are racing toward the future. And in 2025 when cultural tourism is on the rise travelers will have a great chance to see them before they get too crowded.
Let’s take a look at 10 cities that people forgot about but you can still walk through today.
1. Petra, Jordan
Petra was formerly a major commercial center for the Nabataeans. The sandstone cliffs that make up the city are carved into temples, tombs and theaters which is why it is sometimes nicknamed the “Rose-Red City.” It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with a history and beauty that will leave you speechless.
- The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) was excavated out of rock.
- Siq, the small canyon that goes into the city.
- Monastery (Ad Deir) with views all around.
- To avoid crowds go in the morning.
- Don’t miss the candlelight Petra by Night experience.
- Extra tips: A one-day pass costs about $70.
2. Peru’s Machu Picchu
Hidden high in the Andes, Machu Picchu is one of the most famous forgotten cities, rediscovered in 1911. History fans and thrill-seekers will never forget it because of its mystery and beautiful environment.
The Intihuatana stone which is said to be an old sundial is one of the most important things to see.
- Must visit the Temple of the Sun.
- Don’t miss out views from the top of Huayna Picchu, the best way to get there is via hiking the Inca Trail.
- Extra tips: The entry price is about $45 plus the cost of the train or trek.
3. Cambodia’s Angkor
Angkor was once the capital of the Khmer Empire. It is now home to the famous Angkor Wat and hundreds of other temples hidden in jungles.
This is one of the biggest religious buildings in the world. It’s great for photographers, adventurers and cultural travelers.
- Angkor Wat before dawn is one of the best things to see.
- The smiling stone faces of Bayon Temple.
- Ta Prohm, where trees grow on old buildings.
- Tuk-tuks are the cheapest way to go around.
- To avoid the heat of midday, go early or late.
- Extra tips: Get a multi-day pass for $62 for three days.
4. Italy’s Pompeii
Pompeii is a frozen image of Roman life because it was buried in volcanic ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. Pompeii seems like going through an old neighborhood for travelers who are interested in archeology and everyday history.
- The Forum and the Amphitheater are the best parts.
- Frescoes and mosaics that have been kept.
- People who were caught in the eruption.
- Bring a hat because it can get hot with minimal shade.
- Take a trip to Mount Vesuvius to get the entire experience.
- Extra Tips: The ticket price is roughly €16.
5. Guatemala’s Tikal
Tikal was once a strong Maya city deep in the woods of Guatemala. Now, nature has taken over parts of it. The mix of ruins and jungle animals is perfect for people who enjoy adventure and history.
- Climb Temple IV to see the sunrise.
- Check out the Great Plaza and the Central Acropolis.
- Look for howler monkeys and toucans.
- Wear shoes that are comfy because the distances are long.
- November to April is the best time to go (the dry season).
- Extra Tips: The entrance cost is about $20.
6. Hampi, India
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in southern India, was formerly the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire and was home to many temples, palaces and markets. It’s both holy and awe-inspiring for anyone who likes a blend of faith, history and adventure.
- The Virupaksha Temple is still in use today.
- The Vittala Temple Stone Chariot.
- Ruins are strewn out over big boulders.
- You have to see the sunrise at Matanga Hill.
- There are a lot of cheap guesthouses at Hampi Bazaar.
- Extra tips: Most monuments cost less than $10 to get into.
7. Syria’s Palmyra
Palmyra, which used to be called the “Bride of the Desert,” was an important commercial city in the Roman Empire. Even if there has been fighting recently, some of it still stands as proof of its ancient greatness.
For history buffs who want to go to unusual places, albeit safety and getting there will depend on the condition in 2025.
- The Temple of Bel is one of the most important things to see.
- Big Arch and Theater in Rome are some of the charming attractions to check out.
- Guided tours are necessary for safe access.
- Perfect for people who wish to travel for culture and see things that aren’t common.
- Extra Tips: Look up travel warnings before making plans.
8. Mesa Verde, United States
Mesa Verde in Colorado is an American archeological gem since it is home to the old Ancestral Puebloan cliff homes.
For people who wish to learn about Native American history and see some amazing buildings on the edge of a cliff.
- Cliff Palace, the biggest cliff residence, is one of the most important things to see.
- Balcony House has ladders and tunnels.
- The remnants of the Spruce Tree House.
- The best way to see the area is on a ranger-led tour.
- Summer is the busiest time of year, so get your tickets early.
- Extra Tips: The cost of entry is $30 per car.
9. Zimbabwe’s Great Zimbabwe
Great Zimbabwe, which used to be the capital of a medieval African empire, has huge stone walls that were erected without mortar. For those who want to explore African culture and architecture that is unlike anywhere else on the continent.
- The Great Enclosure has high stone walls.
- Hill Complex with ruins of a palace.
- Experiences of Shona culture in the area.
- For a full trip add a safari.
- The best time is from May to September.
- Extra tips: The entry cost is about $15.
10. Chichén Itzá in Mexico
Chichén Itzá is one of the most famous Maya cities, and it will still be a must-see for cultural travelers in 2025. It’s famous, easy to go there and full of buildings with meaning.
- The El Castillo pyramid is the main attraction.
- Holy Cenote and The Temple of the Warriors are also must visits.
- You can swim in a cenote and make a full-day adventure.
- Go in the early morning to avoid crowds.
- Extra Tips: The entry cost is about $25.
People still visit the world’s forgotten cities and they live on through stories, stones and travelers. These cities show how creative people can be: Petra’s carved rose rocks, Machu Picchu’s foggy terraces, Angkor’s jungle temples and Mesa Verde’s cliff homes.
Cultural tourism is on the rise by 2025 and visiting these places is more than simply getting great photos for Instagram. It’s about walking where ancient civilizations once survived.
When you plan your next trip, don’t just think of modern skylines and resorts. Pick a city that has been forgotten, go inside and let its quiet walls remind you that civilizations may decline but their legacies never really go away.