Which 45 Fascinating Landmarks Begin with the Letter C?
Go on an amazing trip that will take you to the most interesting places on our planet, where awesome landmarks stand as examples of human skill and nature’s great creativity.
This blog post shows 45 fascinating destinations, from old civilizations to modern wonders, starting with the letter ‘C,’ including Chichen Itza, Chefchaouen, Cinque Terre, and Cappadocia.
Get ready to be amazed by the tall pyramids, the bright “Blue City” colors, and the beautiful cliffs along stunning coastlines. We will make you want to travel to these incredible places with vivid descriptions and fun details, each offering a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Prepare to begin an unforgettable adventure that will leave you in awe and wanting more.
1. Chartres Cathedral, France
This stunning Gothic cathedral in Chartres boasts some of the world’s finest stained glass windows depicting vivid biblical scenes. Its grand interior also showcases intricate stone sculptures and a unique labyrinth design on the nave floor.
- Main Attraction: The breathtaking stained-glass windows, among the finest in the world, depict biblical stories.
- Popular Activities: Admiring the intricate sculptures, exploring the cathedral’s labyrinth, attending mass or events.
- Famous Dishes: Chartrene (apple tart), rillettes (potted meat), and local wines from the Loire Valley.
- Best Time to Visit: April to September (mild weather).
2. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Chefchaouen is famous for its bright blue-washed buildings, which create a vibrant, picturesque atmosphere. Wandering the “Blue City’s” winding medina alleys surrounded by vivid blue hues is a memorable experience.
- Main Attraction: The picturesque blue-hued old town has winding alleys and traditional houses.
- Popular Activities: Wandering through the medina, shopping for handicrafts, hiking in nearby parks.
- Famous Dishes: Tagine (slow-cooked stew), harira (lentil soup), and mint tea.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October (mild temperatures).
3. Chichén Itzá, Mexico
The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza contains the iconic El Castillo pyramid, considered one of the greatest archaeological wonders. Marvel at the advanced architectural and astronomical design demonstrated in structures like this massive stepped pyramid.
- Main Attraction: El Castillo (The Castle), a massive step pyramid and an iconic symbol of Chichén Itzá.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the ancient ruins, witnessing the equinox phenomenon, and learning about Mayan history.
- Famous Dishes: Cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), sopa de lima (lime soup), and panuchos (small fried tortillas with bean filling).
- Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season).
4. Cinque Terre, Italy
Stretching along the rugged Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre comprises five colorful fishing villages clinging to cliffs and connected by scenic hiking trails. From the coastal paths, take in sweeping vistas over the pastel-hued homes and harbors.
- Main Attraction: The colorful and historic villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
- Popular Activities: Hiking the scenic coastal trails, boat tours, exploring the quaint alleys and harbors.
- Famous Dishes: Focaccia, pesto alla genovese, seafood dishes like anchovies and mussels.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October (mild weather).
5. Cappadocia, Turkey
Central Turkey’s Cappadocia region is known for its unique “fairy chimney” rock formations sculpted by erosion over millions of years. The extraordinary landscapes also feature ancient cave dwellings and churches carved directly into rock formations.
- Main Attraction: The iconic “fairy chimneys” – tall, cone-shaped rock formations sculpted by erosion.
- Popular Activities: Hot air balloon rides, exploring underground cities, hiking through the valleys.
- Famous Dishes: Testi kebab (meat and vegetables cooked in a clay pot), pottery kebab, and local wines.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to November (mild temperatures).
6. Cusco, Peru
Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco blends Spanish colonial architecture, like the historic Plaza de Armas, with remnants of its Incan past. Nearby, explore the impressive stone ruins of fortresses like Sacsayhuaman, which showcase Incan ingenuity.
- Main Attraction: Plaza de Armas, the central square lined with churches and arcades, and the nearby Sacsayhuaman fortress.
- Popular Activities: Exploring Inca ruins like Qorikancha, trekking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and visiting artisan markets.
- Famous Dishes: Cuy (roasted guinea pig), ceviche, causa (potato dish with avocado and tuna or chicken).
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (dry season).
7. Cairo, Egypt
As the capital of Egypt, Cairo gives visitors a window into ancient Egyptian grandeur through iconic sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Don’t miss the Egyptian Museum’s unparalleled collection of pharaonic antiquities.
- Main Attraction: The Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Popular Activities: Visit the Egyptian Museum, cruise the Nile River, and explore the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
- Famous Dishes: Koshari (lentils, rice, pasta, and crispy onions), falafel, shawarma.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler weather).
8. Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic
This medieval town in southern Bohemia is renowned for its beautifully preserved historic core, which features winding cobbled lanes and Renaissance-era buildings. Admire the views from the hilltop castle overlooking the winding Vltava River below.
- Main Attraction: The historic city center’s winding lanes, Renaissance-era buildings, and Ceský Krumlov Castle.
- Popular Activities: Exploring the castle gardens, rafting on the Vltava River, and brewery tours.
- Famous Dishes: Knedlíky (bread dumplings), svíčková (beef sirloin), and Krušovice beer.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (warm weather).
9. Chengdu, China
A prime draw in the capital of Sichuan province is the chance to view adorable giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base. The city is also a gateway for exploring serene Buddhist temples and savoring the region’s famous spicy cuisine.
- Main Attraction: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, home to adorable giant pandas.
- Popular Activities: Visiting bamboo parks, exploring Buddhist temples, savoring the famous Sichuan cuisine.
- Famous Dishes: Kung pao chicken, dandan noodles, hot pot with various dipping sauces.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (mild weather).
10. Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota, USA
The Corn Palace is an eccentric monument adorned with crop art and murals from thousands of corn kernels and grains. This unique attraction in Mitchell is redecorated each year with intricate designs celebrating different themes.
- Main Attraction: The ornate decorations and murals covering the building’s exterior are made from corn and other grains.
- Popular Activities: View the newly redesigned corn murals yearly and attend festivals and events.
- Famous Dishes: Corn cakes, chowder, and Native American fry bread.
- Best Time to Visit: Late August to October (to see the new year’s decorations unveiled).
11. Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The famous Colosseum is an ancient huge stone arena in the heart of Rome. It used to host brutal gladiator fights and public shows. Today, you can take guided tours to explore the massive arena and underground tunnels and learn about its fascinating history. The area also offers tasty local dishes like cacio e pepe pasta and gelato.
- Main Attraction: The massive stone arena, where gladiatorial contests and public spectacles were once held.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours to learn about its history, explore the underground passages, and admire the architecture.
- Famous Dishes: Cacio e pepe (pasta with pecorino and black pepper), carbonara, supplì (fried rice balls), gelato.
- Best Time to Visit: April-June, September-October (mild weather, fewer crowds).
12. Cahokia Mounds, Illinois, USA
Cahokia Mounds is an archaeological site near St. Louis that contains the remains of an ancient Native American city. The enormous Monk’s Mound earthwork is the main attraction, once the center of a thriving city. Visitors can hike trails, visit the museum, and see special events like the sunrise on the equinox.
- Main Attraction: The massive earthen Monk Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas.
- Popular Activities: Walking trails, visiting the interpretive center, observing annual events like equinox sunrise viewing.
- Famous Dishes: Local barbecue, toasted ravioli, gooey butter cake.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall (comfortable temperatures).
13. Campeche, Mexico
This historic port city on Mexico’s Gulf coast boasts beautifully preserved colorful buildings and fortifications from Spanish colonial times. The UNESCO-listed old town center is enchanted with old city walls and churches, and a glimpse into its plundered past by pirates through museums and tours. Local specialties include huevos motuleños (eggs with peas, ham, and plantains) and yucca pastries.
- Main Attraction: The colorful and well-maintained historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Popular Activities: Walking the city walls, exploring pirate history, visiting museums and churches.
- Famous Dishes: Huevos motuleños (eggs with peas, ham, and plantains), pan de jamaica (yucca buns).
- Best Time to Visit: November to February (cooler, dry weather).
14. Cañon Del Sumidero, Mexico
The dramatic Sumidero Canyon cuts through the rugged mountains of Chiapas, Mexico. Towering rock walls rise over the lush green Grijalva River below, creating a narrow gorge. Popular activities include boat tours along the river to spot wildlife and hiking the scenic rim trails.
- Main Attraction: The narrow canyon has soaring rock walls and lush greenery.
- Popular Activities: Taking boat tours along the river, hiking the rim trails, spotting wildlife.
- Famous Dishes: Tamales chiapanecos, chorizo, chocolate drinks.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season).
15. Cannon Beach, Oregon, USA
Cannon Beach offers a long sandy stretch of Pacific coastline dotted with iconic rock formations like the soaring 235-foot Haystack Rock. Visitors enjoy beachcombing, exploring tidal pools, browsing art galleries, and watching storms from this quaint coastal town. Fresh local seafood is a highlight.
- Main Attraction: Haystack Rock, an immense 235-foot sea stack rising from the shore.
- Popular Activities: Beachcombing, tide-pooling, visiting art galleries, storm-watching.
- Famous Dishes: Fresh seafood like Dungeness crab, clam chowder, and craft beers.
- Best Time to Visit: July to October (warmest months).
16. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, USA
This fairytale seaside village on the Monterey Peninsula charms with its storybook cottages, art galleries, beachfront, and whimsical vibe. Popular pastimes include beachcombing, wine tasting, and shopping at upscale boutiques. Local seafood and wines are culinary standouts.
- Main Attraction: The charming village itself with its storybook architecture and village atmosphere.
- Popular Activities: Browsing art galleries, walking trails, beachcombing, wine tasting.
- Famous Dishes: Locally caught seafood, artisanal cheeses, Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
- Best Time to Visit: September to November (warm, sunny weather).
17. Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine, Florida, USA
This imposing 17th-century stone fortress in St. Augustine showcases the solid coquina walls and defensive design of Spanish colonial construction. Touring the grounds provides insights into its role in guarding the settlement, with live weapon demos and colonial-era areas to explore.
- Main Attraction: The thick coquina stone walls of the fort and its imposing defense structures.
- Popular Activities: Touring the fort grounds, watching weapons demonstrations, visiting the colonial-era town.
- Famous Dishes: Minorcan clam chowder, datil pepper cuisine, key lime pie.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May (mild weather, fewer crowds).
18. Cave of the Hands, Argentina
The prehistoric Cave of the Hands in Patagonia holds one of the world’s oldest collections of rock art – hundreds of vivid handprint stencils created over 9,000 years ago by indigenous people. Guided tours give context to the lives of those who adorned these cave walls.
- Main Attraction: The cave walls are adorned with vivid handprint images made by indigenous people.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours to view the cave art and hiking in the surrounding canyons.
- Famous Dishes: Asado (barbecued meats), empanadas, Malbec wines.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April (warmer months).
19. Chankillo, Peru
Chankillo is an ancient archaeological site in coastal Peru containing the oldest solar observatory in the Americas. Its 13 towers were precisely aligned to track the sun’s annual movement, giving a window into early astronomical practices. Guided visits help decipher this ancient science.
- Main Attraction: The 13 towers aligned to mark the sun’s annual progression.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours exploring the towers and astronomical heritage.
- Famous Dishes: Ceviche, causa rellena, lomo saltado (stir-fried beef).
- Best Time to Visit: May to October (dry season).
20. Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s iconic 16th-century Charles Bridge, decorated with baroque statues, offers scenic walks across the Vltava River. Strolling along its length reveals great views of Prague’s skyline and a lively atmosphere of street performers and vendors selling traditional Czech food and drinks.
- Main Attraction: The iconic 16th-century bridge itself, with its unique carving and scenic views.
- Popular Activities: Strolling across while admiring city views and watching street performers.
- Famous Dishes: Czech beer, goulash, trdelník (chimney cake).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (mild weather).
21. Château de Chambord, France
This enormous château in France’s Loire Valley showcases Renaissance French architecture with its distinct design and elaborate rooftop. Touring the lavish interiors and vast landscaped grounds provides insights into 16th-century royal living.
- Main Attraction: The enormous château itself, with its elaborate roofline of chimneys and towers.
- Popular Activities: Touring the opulent interior and exploring the grounds and gardens.
- Famous Dishes: Coq au vin, tarte tatin, Vouvray wines.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October.
22. Chittorgarh Fort, India
One of India’s largest forts, Chittorgarh Fort stretches across 700 acres atop a hill in Rajasthan. This immense complex dazzles visitors with its towering gateways, grand palaces, ornate temples, and reminders of its tumultuous history through light shows and exhibits.
- Main Attraction: The massive fort, spread over 700 acres, has formidable defenses and ornate temples and palaces.
- Popular Activities: Exploring towers, gateways, and ancient monuments, as well as attending light and sound shows.
- Famous Dishes: Daal baati churma, lal maas, mawa kachori.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March (cooler weather).
23. Chora Church, Istanbul, Turkey
Now a museum, the interior of Chora Church is breathtakingly covered in exquisite Byzantine mosaics and frescoes. Depicting vivid biblical scenes, these 11th-century artworks showcase the era’s rich history and craftsmanship through guided tours.
- Main Attraction: The breathtaking interior is covered in shimmering mosaics depicting biblical scenes and characters.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours focused on mosaics, art history, and photography.
- Famous Dishes: Turkish kebabs, baklava, Turkish coffee.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (mild weather).
24. Cape Town, South Africa
Vibrant Cape Town blends natural scenery with urban energy. The iconic flat-topped Table Mountain offers panoramic views, while Robben Island recalls the apartheid history. The nearby Cape Winelands offers vineyard tastings and cuisine like the savory bobotie dish.
- Main Attraction: Table Mountain, the flat-topped iconic peak with amazing city and ocean views.
- Popular Activities: Hiking trails, visiting Robben Island, touring the Cape Winelands region.
- Famous Dishes: Bobotie, smoked snoek, Cape Malay curries.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (mild weather).
25. Capri, Italy
The picturesque island of Capri dazzles with towering seaside cliffs, turquoise waters, and a chic atmosphere. Boat tours explore famous sights like the Blue Grotto sea cave, while hilltop trails reward breathtaking coastal vistas and opportunities for beachside relaxation.
- Main Attraction: The stunning natural scenery, including the famous Blue Grotto sea cave.
- Popular Activities: Boat tours around the island, hiking trails with coastal views, and beach clubs.
- Famous Dishes: Insalata caprese, spaghetti alle zucchine, limoncello liqueur.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (warm, sunny weather).
26. Carcassonne, France
This medieval fortified city in southern France is renowned for its extraordinarily well-preserved ancient city walls and fairy-tale-like atmosphere. The double ring of ramparts and 53 watch towers encircling the old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Popular activities include walking along the fortifications, exploring the medieval citadel, and shopping.
- Main Attraction: The double ring of ancient ramparts and 53 watch towers encircling the old city.
- Popular Activities: Walking along the UNESCO-listed fortifications, exploring the medieval citadel, and shopping.
- Famous Dishes: Cassoulet (slow-cooked bean dish), Crème Catalane (creamy dessert), local wines.
- Best Time to Visit: April to June, September to October (pleasant weather).
27. Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico, USA
Carlsbad Caverns is a remarkable underground cave system in the Chihuahuan Desert of New Mexico. The main attraction is the vast main cavern, the Big Room, an underground cathedral of towering rock formations. Visitors can take guided tours through various caves, hike the desert terrain above, and attend bat flight programs.
- Main Attraction: The vast main cavern called the Big Room is an underground cathedral of towering rock formations.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours through various caves, hiking the desert terrain above, and bat flight programs.
- Famous Dishes: Green chile stew, frito pie, biscochitos (anise cookies).
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall (mild temperatures).
28. Casa Milà (La Pedrera), Barcelona, Spain
Casa Milà, popularly known as La Pedrera, is an iconic modernist building designed by architect Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. Its undulating stone facade and sculptural rooftop evoking the ocean are major draws. Popular activities include visiting the rooftop, courtyards, and an exhibit on Gaudí’s life and works.
- Main Attraction: The undulating stone facade and the rooftop are covered in sculptural elements evoking the ocean.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the rooftop, courtyards, and an exhibit on Gaudí’s life and works.
- Famous Dishes: Paella, pan con tomate, crema catalana.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (comfortable weather).
29. Château de Chenonceau, France
The Château de Chenonceau is a 16th-century Renaissance castle stretching across the Cher River in the Loire Valley of France. Its elegant architecture, with an arched bridge and patterned rooftops, are highlights. Visitors can tour the ornate interiors and gardens, attend wine tastings, and take hot air balloon rides.
- Main Attraction: The elegant castle stretches across the river, with its arched bridge and patterned rooflines.
- Popular Activities: Touring the ornate interiors and gardens, wine tastings, and hot air balloon rides.
- Famous Dishes: Tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart), rillettes, Vouvray white wines.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (warmer months).
30. Christmas Island, Australia
Christmas Island is a remote Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, famous for its unique natural attractions, such as the vibrant annual red crab migration. Popular activities include snorkeling, diving in the clear waters, hiking rainforests, and bird watching.
- Main Attraction: The vibrant red-orange crab migrates annually across the island.
- Popular Activities: Snorkeling, diving in clear waters, hiking through rainforests, and bird watching.
- Famous Dishes: Christmas Island golden bosun shrimp, tropical fruits.
- Best Time to Visit: November to January (crab migration season).
31. City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia, Spain
The City of Arts and Sciences is a stunningly futuristic cultural and architectural complex in Valencia, designed by Santiago Calatrava. The striking modern structures like the L’Hemisfèric planetarium and L’Oceanogràfic aquarium are major draws. Visitors enjoy exploring the science museum, aquarium, and art venues.
- Main Attraction: The striking modern structures like the L’Hemisfèric planetarium and L’Oceanogràfic aquarium.
- Popular Activities: Explore the science museum, aquarium, and art venues and admire the architecture.
- Famous Dishes: Paella Valenciana, rojiones (sea doughnuts), agua de Valencia (Spanish beverage).
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November (comfortable weather).
32. Ciudad Perdida, Colombia
Ciudad Perdida (The Lost City) contains incredibly well-preserved ruins of an ancient city built around 800 CE by the Tairona people, hidden in Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountains. The main activity is taking guided multi-day treks through the jungle to reach these remote archaeological ruins.
- Main Attraction: The incredibly preserved ruins of an ancient city built around 800 CE by the Tairona people.
- Popular Activities: Guided multi-day treks through the jungle to reach the remote ruins.
- Famous Dishes: Bandeja paisa, arepas, cholados (shaved ice desserts).
- Best Time to Visit: December to March (dry season).
33. Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde, Colorado, USA
Cliff Palace is the largest cliff dwelling in North America, located in Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. This immense multi-story palace built into a cliff by Ancestral Puebloans offers ranger-guided tours exploring the archaeological site, hiking trails, and junior ranger programs.
- Main Attraction: The immense multi-storied palace was built on a cliff by Ancestral Puebloans.
- Popular Activities: Ranger-guided archaeological site tours, hiking trails, and junior ranger programs.
- Famous Dishes: Green chile stew, Rocky Mountain oysters, fry bread.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (mild weather).
34. Cloud Gate (The Bean), Chicago, USA
Cloud Gate is a massive stainless steel sculpture resembling a bean in Chicago’s Millennium Park. The iconic, highly polished sculpture reflects the city skyline and offers a unique photo opportunity. Visitors enjoy walking underneath and around “The Bean” while picnicking in the park.
- Main Attraction: The iconic, highly polished bean-shaped sculpture reflects the city skyline.
- Popular Activities: Walking underneath and around the sculpture, picnicking in the park.
- Famous Dishes: Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, rainbow cones.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall (for optimal park enjoyment).
35. Colossi of Memnon, Egypt
The Colossi of Memnon are two massive 60-foot-tall stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III in Luxor, Egypt. These carved sandstone figures depict the pharaoh seated on his throne. Guided tours explore this archaeological site, often including light and sound shows.
- Main Attraction: The 60-foot tall carved sandstone figures representing the pharaoh on his throne.
- Popular Activities: Guided archaeological site tours, sunrise, and sound-and-light shows.
- Famous Dishes: Ful medames, kushari, baklava.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler weather).
36. Corn Islands, Nicaragua
The Corn Islands are a pair of Caribbean islands off the coast of Nicaragua. They are known for their laid-back vibe and incredible diving and snorkeling. The crystal clear turquoise waters teem with vibrant marine life, including coral reefs and shipwrecks. Popular activities include fishing and beach lounging.
- Main Attraction: The crystal clear waters teem with vibrant marine life like coral reefs and shipwrecks.
- Popular Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, beach lounging.
- Famous Dishes: Rondon (fish stew), gallo pinto (rice and beans), fresh seafood.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, August to October (drier weather).
37. Corvin Castle, Romania
Corvin Castle is a medieval Gothic-Renaissance castle in Hunedoara, Romania. Also known as Hunyadi or Hunedoara Castle, it impresses with its fairy-tale-like fortress looks, including imposing defensive towers, drawbridges, and lavishly carved decorations. Tours explore the castle rooms, courtyards, and photography opportunities.
- Main Attraction: The fairy-tale-like fortress with its imposing defensive towers, drawbridges, and lavishly carved decorations.
- Popular Activities: Touring the castle rooms and courtyards, medieval festivals, photography.
- Famous Dishes: Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mămăligă (polenta), papanași (cheese doughnuts).
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (milder weather).
38. Craco, Italy
Craco is an abandoned medieval town in Basilicata, Italy, preserved in its deteriorated state as a haunting time capsule. The ghost town’s eerie decaying buildings, churches, and homes were abandoned in 1963. Guided tours lead visitors through the empty streets and buildings, ideal for photographers.
- Main Attraction: The ghost town was abandoned in 1963 with its eerie decaying buildings, churches, and homes.
- Popular Activities: Guided tours through the empty streets and buildings, photography.
- Famous Dishes: Pittede (handmade pasta pockets), Lucanica sausage, bread from Matera.
- Best Time to Visit: April to October (milder weather).
39. Crazy Horse Memorial, South Dakota, USA
The Crazy Horse Memorial is an enormous mountain sculpture still under construction in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The main attraction is the colossal carving emerging from the granite mountainside, depicting the legendary Lakota leader Crazy Horse. Popular activities include visiting the museum and Native American Educational & Cultural Center.
- Main Attraction: The colossal carving of Crazy Horse, a legendary Lakota leader, emerging from the granite mountainside.
- Popular Activities: Visiting the museum and Native American Educational & Cultural Center.
- Famous Dishes: Bison burgers, fried bread, wojapi (berry sauce).
- Best Time to Visit: Late Spring through Fall (for better weather).
40. Cuenca, Ecuador
Cuenca is a charming colonial city in Ecuador’s highlands, recognized for its well-preserved 16th-century architecture and art scene. The UNESCO-listed Old Town enchants with its domed cathedral, handicraft markets, museums, and art galleries to explore. Local specialties include locro de papas (potato soup) and cuy (guinea pig).
- Main Attraction: The well-preserved 16th century Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Popular Activities: Admiring the domed cathedral, browsing handicraft markets, visiting museums and art galleries.
- Famous Dishes: Locro de papas (potato soup), cuy (guinea pig), mora drink (blackberry juice).
- Best Time to Visit: June to September (drier weather).
41. Cango Caves, South Africa
The Cango Caves are a spectacular underground network of limestone caves in South Africa’s Western Cape region. The vast caverns contain impressive natural dripstone formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can take guided cave tours or adventure tours to explore the different chambers.
- Main Attraction: The vast caverns have impressive dripstone formations like stalactites and stalagmites.
- Popular Activities: Guided cave tours to explore the different chambers and adventure tours.
- Famous Dishes: Bobotie, melktert (milk tart), biltong (cured meat).
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round (caves maintain a constant temperature).
42. Chocolate Hills, Philippines
The Chocolate Hills are a bizarre geological formation comprising hundreds of uniformly shaped brown-green hills in Bohol, Philippines. They create a surreal landscape. Popular activities include viewpoint tours in the stretches of iconic hills, hiking, ziplining, and river cruises.
- Main Attraction: The vast stretches of the iconic brown-green hills create a surreal landscape.
- Popular Activities: Viewpoint tours, mountain hiking, ziplining, and river cruises.
- Famous Dishes: Chicken inasal, biko (sticky rice cake), halo-halo (crushed ice dessert).
- Best Time to Visit: January to May (drier weather).
43. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
The Cliffs of Moher are iconic 700-foot high vertical sea cliffs towering over the Atlantic Ocean along Ireland’s west coast. Highlights include hiking the cliff trails for incredible coastal vistas, birdwatching, and exploring the visitor center. The cliffs offer dramatic scenery.
- Main Attraction: The stunning 700-foot high vertical rock faces with incredible coastal vistas.
- Popular Activities: Hiking the cliff trails, birdwatching, and exploring the visitor center.
- Famous Dishes: Irish stew, soda bread, fresh Atlantic seafood.
- Best Time to Visit: April to September (milder weather).
44. Colca Canyon, Peru
Canyon is a massive river canyon in southern Peru, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Major draws include the staggering depth of the canyon itself and opportunities to spot Andean condors soaring overhead. Popular activities include hiking, canoeing, and visiting local villages and hot springs.
- Main Attraction: The staggering depth of the canyon and spotting Andean condors soaring overhead.
- Popular Activities: Hiking, canoeing, visiting local villages and hot springs.
- Famous Dishes: Rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), pachamanca (pit baked meat/vegetables).
- Best Time to Visit: May to October (drier weather).
45. Copán Ruinas, Honduras
Copán Ruinas contains some of Honduras’s finest remains of the ancient Maya civilization. The archaeological park’s highlights are the intricately carved stelae sculptures and hieroglyphic inscriptions within the ceremonial center, ball courts and museum exhibits.
- Main Attraction: The elaborately carved stelae and hieroglyphic sculptures within the archaeological park.
- Popular Activities: Touring the ceremonial center, ball courts, and museums.
- Famous Dishes: Baleadas (flour tortillas), yuca frita, cashew wine.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season).
Final Thoughts
As we finish our exciting journey through 45 extraordinary landmarks, such as Chichen Itza, Chefchaouen, Cinque Terre, and Cappadocia, we feel grateful for the wonders that cover our planet.
Each destination, from the ancient Mayan ruins to the natural rock formations carved by erosion, has left a mark on our souls.
We have explored vibrant blue cities, been amazed at skillful pyramids, and stood in awe before mighty seaside cliffs.
Let this adventure inspire future explorations, pushing us to keep looking for the wonders waiting in every corner of the world.
Whether exploring archaeological gems, admiring the colorful architecture, or losing yourself in nature’s masterpieces, the possibilities are endless when the journey begins with a ‘C.’