Breadcrumbs
Some cities have stood the test of time, serving as living museums of human civilization. These ancient destinations are filled with history, architectural marvels, and stories that span millennia. If you’re a history buff or simply love exploring places steeped in culture, here are some of the world’s oldest cities you can still visit today.
Because you never know what history or nature has in store, consider travel insurance before embarking on your journey.
Luxor, Egypt
Dating back to around 3200 BC, Luxor has been continuously inhabited since before Egypt’s famous pyramids were built. While Giza’s pyramids often steal the spotlight, Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins in the world.
Originally referred to as the city of Thebes, Luxor boasts incredible monuments for history buffs, including the Luxor Temple and the Karnak Temple Complex. Some of the most remarkable Egyptian artwork can be seen in the many tombs of the Valley of the Kings.
Of course, you’ll also find a Luxor in Las Vegas, but you’ll only find a 30-story hotel and casino there, which dates all the way back to 1993. Our thoughts? Let’s be real, nothing beats the real deal!
Xi'an, China
While Xi'an may not be the oldest city in China, it is often thought of as the birthplace of Chinese civilization. The capital city of 13 imperial dynasties, Xi’an is most notable for being the location of thousands of sculptures that make up the Terracotta Army, as well as being the starting point for the Silk Road.
Xi’an is the oldest of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals and offers the chance to bike or walk along one of the largest ancient military defensive systems in the world, the Xi’an City Wall. Pay a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum to learn the long history of the dynasties that ruled the region.
Jakarta, Indonesia
While it may be best known today as Indonesia’s bustling capital, Jakarta has a history that dates back to the 4th century—long before Angkor Wat was built in Cambodia.
Visit the historic Sunda Kelapa harbor, where traders from China, India, and Arabia once arrived by sea. Nearby, you’ll find Kota Tua, Jakarta’s Old Town, where Dutch colonial buildings now house museums and cafés. To get a glimpse of the city's traditional roots, explore the Glodok Chinatown district and Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, a cultural park showcasing Indonesia’s diverse heritage.
Athens, Greece
Athens isn’t Greece’s oldest city (that title goes to Argos), but it’s certainly one of the most iconic. With over 3,400 years of history, Athens is a treasure trove of ancient wonders.
No visit is complete without seeing the Parthenon, which has watched over the city for more than two millennia. The Acropolis Museum and National Archaeological Museum offer a deeper dive into Greek history and mythology. After exploring the ruins, wander through the Plaka neighbourhood, where cobblestone streets and lively tavernas provide a taste of modern Athens with an ancient backdrop.
Cholula, Mexico
North America’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Cholula, is home to the world’s largest pyramid (by volume), Tlachihualtepetl. Hidden beneath a grassy hill, this massive structure dwarfs even the Great Pyramid of Giza. Atop it sits the Church of Our Lady of Remedies, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Long before the Spanish arrived in the Americas, Cholula was an important economic and religious centre. You’ll find dozens of historic churches dating between the 17th and 19th centuries, as well as the San Gabriel Church, founded in the 16th century. Be sure to check out the tunnels inside the pyramid, visit the Museo Regional de Cholula, and admire the 365 churches said to represent each day of the year.
Quito, Ecuador
Perched high in the Andes, Quito is one of South America’s oldest cities and one of the best-preserved colonial capitals. Built on the ruins of an ancient Inca city, Quito was among the first places designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Stroll through Quito’s historic Old Town, where coloulorful colonial buildings, lively plazas, and ornate churches transport you back in time. Climb the towers of the Basilica del Voto Nacional for breathtaking city views, or visit Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, famous for its gold-covered interior.