15 Most Breathtaking World Heritage Sites

Iguacu Falls

Where: Brazil and Argentina

At 490 feet wide and nearly 3000 feet long, is filled with falls of every size and intensity, most notably Devil's Throat, where water drops from a height of 270 feet. With the highest flow of water on record, Iguaçu easily topples its equally famous sisters, Victoria and Niagara Falls. Ample viewing opportunities are available: Argentina offers close-up action shots with walkways that lead visitors into the the action—feeling the power of the water is unforgettable. Brazil features all-encompassing panoramas and sweeping vistas of the falls' network, allowing you to appreciate their sheer size.

Insider Tip: is often overlooked, but the destination affords decent glimpses of the falls.

Plan Your Trip: Visit Fodor’s and Guides

(Dmitry V. Petrenko/Shutterstock)

Travelers jump at the chance to witness firsthand the dramatic landscapes and cultural wonders that have earned the distinction of being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We daydream about them and are filled with wanderlust at their very mention. With nearly 1000 places now on the World Heritage List, UNESCO offers inexhaustible inspiration for life-changing trips to every corner of the globe. From ancient architecture to pristine nature reserves, here are some of the world’s most breathtaking World Heritage Sites.

By Anisha Shah

Anisha Shah is a luxury and emerging destinations travel journalist. Her background as BBC TV & radio news reporter, combined with long-standing love affair for travel, sees her first on the scene of new and exciting travel hotspots. Her work has appeared in Huffington Post, Fodor’s and Yahoo Travel. Follow Anisha on Twitter: @anishahbbc.