Old towns are like living museums where time seems to slow down, and cobblestone streets and refined facades provide a tangible connection to our shared past. These historic districts are more than just architectural curiosities – they satisfy a deep psychological need for continuity and authenticity in our fast-changing world. Visitors and residents alike find themselves drawn to the craftsmanship evident in every timber frame and stone archway—testaments to human creativity that have withstood centuries. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these areas serve as economic engines through thoughtful cultural preservation, creating spaces where modern commerce and ancient traditions coexist in delicate balance.
While there are many historic centers across the world’s landscape, not all old towns are equal – some have managed to preserve that magic better than others. In this article, we present ten of the most impressive historic old towns in the world, distinguished not only by their exceptional preservation and historical and cultural significance, but also by their undeniable charm.
How We Made This List?
Creating a list of the world’s most remarkable old towns we choose a methodical approach to ensure fairness, diversity, and depth. Here’s how we did it:
Defining an “Old Town”
First, we established what qualifies as an “old town.” For our purposes, these are preserved historic urban areas that retain their original layout, architecture, and cultural character. These districts often serve as the heart of a city, where centuries-old streets and buildings coexist with modern life.
Starting with UNESCO Recognition
To narrow our focus, we prioritized old towns designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. UNESCO recognition guarantees that these areas are legally protected and deemed of “outstanding universal value” by experts. This criterion helped us identify locations with verified historical and cultural significance.
Prioritizing Diversity
While European old towns dominate travel narratives, we intentionally sought out underrepresented regions to create a balanced list. Ancient towns in Asia, Africa, and the Americas often possess equally rich histories and architectural marvels but receive less global attention. Our goal was to celebrate both iconic destinations and hidden gems.
Selection Process
From an initial pool of UNESCO-listed old towns, we shortlisted 20 candidates. These were evaluated using a scoring system based on four criteria:
- Historical Significance (0–10 points) How pivotal was the old town in shaping regional or global history? Did it host major events, movements, or cultural exchanges?
- Architectural Preservation (0–10 points) To what extent have original structures, materials, and urban layouts been maintained? Were restorations faithful to historical methods?
- Uniqueness (0–10 points) Does the old town possess rare or distinctive features? This could include unique cultural fusion, innovative ancient engineering, or surviving traditions.
- Global Recognition (0–10 points) Is the old town widely celebrated in travel media, literature, or pop culture? While fame isn’t essential, iconic status often reflects enduring appeal.
Using these criteria, we scored each old town and ranked them to create a balanced list that combines historical depth, architectural beauty, cultural uniqueness, and global appeal. The result is a curated selection of the world’s most impressive old towns.
Now, let’s explore these extraordinary places, starting with the historic heart of Rome.
1. Historic Centre of Rome, Italy
Rome’s historic center is the cradle of Western civilization, packed with over 2,700 years of history, from the Roman Republic to the Baroque era. It was the epicenter of the Roman Empire, a political and cultural powerhouse that shaped the Western world. Pivotal moments, such as the assassination of Julius Caesar and the rise of Christianity, unfolded here.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, the historic center covers 14 square kilometers. It’s home to more than 25,000 environmental and archaeological sites from ancient Rome, the Renaissance, and the Baroque periods. While visiting every site would take weeks, even a couple of days are enough to hit the most iconic spots.
The must-sees include the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon, which showcase the engineering genius of ancient Rome. The area is also packed with Baroque masterpieces like the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona.
During peak season, these spots are swarmed with tourists, locals prefer the quieter streets of Trastevere. Historically a working-class neighborhood blending various cultures—including early Jewish and Syrian communities—Trastevere has evolved into a vibrant area beloved by locals. Its narrow, charming streets are filled with small restaurants, pizzerias, bakeries, boutique shops, churches, and even a few tiny museums.
Why Visit?
Rome’s historic center is unparalleled in its density of historical landmarks. Where else can you walk from an ancient amphitheater to a Renaissance square in minutes?
The Downsides
Crowds are inevitable, especially near major landmarks. And with crowds come trash, which often isn’t cleaned up efficiently. Traffic jams and unreliable public transport can also make getting around a hassle.
2. Old City of Jerusalem
The Old City of Jerusalem is the spiritual heart of the three major religions. This compact area, less than one square kilometer, is enclosed by Ottoman-era walls and divided into four quarters: Jewish, Christian, Muslim, and Armenian.
Dating back to the 4th millennium BCE, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on Earth. Throughout its history, the city has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt countless times. In 1981, the Old City and its walls were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to ongoing political tensions, it is also listed as a World Heritage in Danger site.
Among its 220 historical monuments, the most notable is the Dome of the Rock. This Islamic shrine, marking Muhammad’s night journey, is also deeply connected to Jewish and Christian traditions. The Western Wall, sacred to Jews as a remnant of the Second Temple, separates the quarters of different religious communities. Meanwhile, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is considered the holiest site in Christianity, encompassing Golgotha (where Jesus was crucified) and his tomb (where he was buried and resurrected).
Why Visit?
The Old City of Jerusalem lets you feel a deep connection to the roots of the three major religions. The city’s multilayered history is palpable in its streets, where ancient rituals and daily life intertwine.
The Downsides
Due to the political and religious tensions in the region, visits can be challenging. Security checkpoints and restrictions might affect access to certain areas, and during periods of heightened tension, travel might not even be possible.
3. Prague Old Town (Staré Mesto), Czech Republic
Prague’s Old Town (Staré Město) is a stunning blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture, with its skyline dominated by towers and red rooftops. Located on the right bank of the Vltava River, this compact historical district spans just 1.3 square kilometers (130 hectares) and dates back to the 9th century.
Among Europe’s historic centers, Prague stands out for its authenticity. It was largely spared from the widespread destruction that affected many cities during wars, especially World War II. Unlike cities like Dresden (Germany) or Rotterdam (Netherlands), which were heavily bombed and rebuilt after the war, Prague’s Old Town has preserved its original structures and urban layout. Other well-preserved old towns, such as Bruges (Belgium) or Krakow (Poland), also have high levels of authenticity, but Prague’s scale and the diversity of its architectural styles—from Gothic to Baroque—offer a broader historical narrative.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, Prague’s Old Town features some of Europe’s most iconic landmarks. The Prague Astronomical Clock, installed in 1410, is the oldest working astronomical clock in the world. The Church of Our Lady before Týn, a Gothic masterpiece with its asymmetrical twin spires, has been a symbol of Prague since the mid-14th century. And, of course, there’s the iconic Charles Bridge, adorned with 30 Baroque statues of saints and religious figures, connecting the Old Town to the Lesser Town (Malá Strana).
Why Visit?
Having escaped destruction during the war and major reconstructions, Prague’s Old Town is one of the most authentic in all of Europe. Plus, its compact size makes it ideal for exploring on foot, allowing you to experience centuries of architectural evolution as if walking through an open-air museum.
The Downsides
Prague’s Old Town faces challenges from overtourism. Huge crowds are inevitable, especially during peak seasons like summer, Easter, and Christmas markets. Most services and goods are overpriced and cater specifically to tourists, making it hard to find genuine Czech experiences. A great example is the trdelník, a pastry marketed as traditional but actually created for tourists.
4. Fes el-Bali, Morocco
Fes el-Bali, located in Fes, Morocco’s second-largest city, is considered one of the most extensive and best-preserved historic towns in the Arab-Muslim world. Founded during the Idrisid dynasty in the 8th-9th centuries, Fes originally consisted of two independent and rival settlements made up of refugees from modern-day Spain and migrants from present-day Tunisia. In the 11th century, these two settlements merged to create a thriving cultural and spiritual center.
In 1981, Fes el-Bali was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List under the broader name “Medina of Fez.” This designation includes the entire historical structure of the city—Fes el-Bali (the original 9th-century core), Fes Jdid (the “New Fez,” established in the 13th century), and some surrounding areas.
Covering approximately 2.2 square kilometers, Fes el-Bali is the world’s largest car-free urban area. It’s a labyrinth of over 9,000 narrow alleyways and more than 11,000 historical buildings. These streets were originally designed for pedestrians, horses, and donkeys, making it physically impossible for cars to navigate through most of the district.
The first thing visitors see when arriving in Fes el-Bali is Bab Bou Jeloud (the Blue Gate), an iconic city gate built in 1913. Among the thousands of historical structures in the medina, the most famous is the University of al-Qarawiyyin. Founded in 859 AD, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Another must-see is Bou Inania Madrasa, a 14th-century Marinid-era Islamic school known for its exquisite architecture, which is open to non-Muslim visitors. Fes el-Bali is also home to some of the liveliest markets in Morocco. One of its most unique attractions is Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest leather tanneries in the world, where traditional leather dyeing methods have been used for centuries. Visitors can observe the colorful dyeing pits from nearby terraces.
Why Visit?
Fes el-Bali offers an unparalleled sensory experience—the aroma of spices, the echoing calls to prayer from historic mosques, the vibrant energy of bustling souks, and the intricate details of Islamic architecture. As the largest car-free city zone in the world, it provides a truly unique step back in time.
The Downsides
For some, this sensory experience might feel overwhelming—crowds can be irritating, noises too loud, and the maze of alleyways too confusing. Additionally, many of Fes el-Bali’s attractions, such as mosques, are off-limits to non-Muslims. For most travelers, the biggest stress comes from aggressive touts who try to scam tourists. For example, they might offer unsolicited guidance to attractions and then demand unreasonably hightips. Some even mislead tourists by claiming streets are closed or blocked to steer them toward specific shops or stalls.
5. Hoi An Ancient Town, Vietnam
Hoi An – a rare mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences preserved over centuries of trade and cultural exchange. Established in the 15th century, it became a hub for Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, and Portuguese merchants trading silk, ceramics, and spices. Its significance was so great that in the 18th century, it was called the “Silk Road of the Sea.” However, by the 19th century, the silting of the Thu Bon River and the rise of Da Nang’s port led to its decline. Ironically, this decline helped preserve Hội An’s unique architecture, as it was left largely untouched by modernization.
In 1999, this Vietnamese town was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List for its “exceptional preservation of a Southeast Asian trading port and fusion of cultural influences.” Hoi An is home to over 1,100 wooden-framed buildings, blending Vietnamese, Chinese (e.g., Phuc Kien Assembly Hall), Japanese (e.g., Covered Bridge), and French colonial styles.
The most famous landmark is the Japanese Covered Bridge, a 17th-century bridge built by Japanese merchants with a Buddhist pagoda. This bridge is even featured on Vietnam’s 20,000 VND banknote. Another historical gem is Tan Ky House, a 200-year-old residence that beautifully showcases Hoi An’s fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese design elements. It is one of the best-preserved ancient homes in the city.
For an authentic experience, don’t miss Hội An’s central market. Despite the city’s increasing commercialization, this market offers a truly authentic experience, serving both tourists and residents alike. Here, you can buy fresh tropical fruits and try Cao Lầu, a signature Vietnamese noodle dish unique to Hội An.
Why Visit?
Hội An is a living museum of East-meets-West architecture. Beyond its historic beauty, the town is also a foodie paradise, famous for aforementioned Cao Lầu and Bánh Mì. Even Anthony Bourdain, the legendary traveler and chef, was captivated by the flavors of Hội An.
The Downsides
Like many famous old towns on this list, Hoi An suffers from overtourism. The 1 km² core of the Ancient Town sees 10,000–15,000 visitors daily, peaking between 3 PM and 9 PM. The town simply wasn’t built to accommodate such crowds, leading to congestion that can make it difficult to fully appreciate the atmosphere. A great example is the famous Faifo Coffee rooftop, which offers stunning views of Hội An’s tiled rooftops and lantern-lit streets. While Instagram is full of shots from this spot, the reality is that during peak hours, you might have to wait 30 minutes or more just for a single photo.
6. Old City of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Encircled by 16th-century defensive walls, Dubrovnik’s Old Town stands as a symbol of resilience, having withstood earthquakes, sieges, and centuries of power struggles in the Mediterranean.
Dubrovnik’s origins trace back to Ragusa, a settlement founded by refugees from Epidaurum, protected by Byzantine fortifications. In the 12th century, it merged with a Slavic village (Dubrava, meaning “oak grove”) and rose to maritime power, rivaling Venice in trade and diplomacy.
However, in 1667, an earthquake—one of the most devastating in Croatian history—changed the city forever. About 95% of its buildings collapsed or were severely damaged, including Gothic landmarks like the Rector’s Palace. The city was later rebuilt in the Baroque style, shaping the Dubrovnik we see today. This earthquake also marked the beginning of Ragusa’s decline, as its dominance in Mediterranean trade faded.
Another dark chapter came in the 1990s during the Croatian War of Independence, when Yugoslav forces besieged Dubrovnik in 1991–92. About 60% of the Old Town’s buildings suffered damage, including its stone streets, fortifications, and historic sites like the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest functioning pharmacies. UNESCO played a crucial role in documenting, preserving, and restoring Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage during and after the siege. Between 1992 and 2000, $35 million was spent to rebuild the Old Town using traditional methods.
The most famous attraction is the City Walls, dating from the 13th–17th centuries, which wrap around the Old Town for 2 km. Both the walls and their highest point, Minčeta Tower, are instantly recognizable to Game of Thrones fans, as they were filming locations for King’s Landing. Walking along these walls offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s terracotta rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and the nearby Lokrum Islands. Another Game of Thrones hotspot is Fort Lovrijenac, which served as the Red Keep in scenes like Joffrey’s Name Day tournament. Built in the 11th century, this fortress is often called “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar” for its strategic coastal location.
Beyond its famous walls, Dubrovnik’s charming alleys and historic streets are part of its magic. The most famous is Stradun (Placa), a 300-meter-long pedestrian boulevard paved with polished limestone, which shines like glass under the sun. Originally built in 1468, this street is the heart of the Old Town, lined with cafes, shops, and historical buildings.
Why Visit?
Dubrovnik blends Venetian grandeur, Slavic resilience, and Mediterranean charm. With its crystal-clear Adriatic waters and Europe’s best-preserved medieval defenses, it’s a dream destination for history lovers. And for Game of Thrones fans, it’s a chance to step into King’s Landing.
The Downsides
Dubrovnik suffers from extreme overtourism, arguably more than any other destination on this list. Since the rise of Game of Thrones tourism, the influx of visitors hasn’t slowed down. Efforts to limit daily visitor numbers began in 2017, but the crowds remain overwhelming. Streets like Stradun and attractions like the City Walls often feel like historic Disneyland, with queues exceeding an hour.
Over-commercialization has also taken a toll. Prices in Dubrovnik are much higher than anywhere else in Croatia, and local family-run shops have largely disappeared, replaced by generic souvenir stores, overpriced cafés, and tourist traps serving nearly identical menus. Most of the Old Town’s homes are now short-term rentals, and the resident population has shrunk from 5,000 in the 1990s to around 1,000 today.
7. Old Québec, Canada
Old Québec is a stone-built bastion of French colonial ambition and the only fully preserved fortified colonial city in North America. Founded in 1608 by French explorer Samuel de Champlain as a fur trading post, it became the capital of New France and later, under British rule, a strategic stronghold. The 1759 Battle of the Plains of Abraham, fought on the outskirts of the city, marked a pivotal moment when Britain took control. Despite changes in governance, the legacy of French architecture and culture endured, blending with British influence to give Québec a dual French and English identity.
In the 1870s, the city’s fortifications were at risk of being demolished, but Governor Lord Dufferin halted their destruction, preserving the historic character of the city. Finally, in 1985, the Historic District of Old Québec, recognized for its intact colonial city ensemble and its role in European settlement, became the first North American city to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Spanning 135 hectares with over 1,400 buildings, the area showcases more than four centuries of history, intertwining French colonial, British, Romantic, and modern architecture. Château Frontenac dominates the skyline with its castle-like silhouette. Built in 1893, this hotel is one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of Château-style architecture, blending medieval French design with modern luxury. The hotel is not only known for its stunning architecture but also for its rich history—during World War II, it hosted conferences where Churchill, Roosevelt, and Mackenzie King coordinated Allied efforts.
Another notable site is The Citadelle of Québec. This star-shaped bastion fort, covering 37 acres and inspired by the principles of French engineer Vauban, remains an active military installation. The Citadelle also houses a military museum, and during the summer months, it hosts the changing of the guard ceremony, echoing the traditions of Buckingham Palace—complete with soldiers wearing bearskin hats. Visitors should also explore Petit Champlain, the oldest commercial district in North America, famous for its cobblestone streets and preserved 17th-18th century architecture. The most picturesque street in the area is Rue du Petit-Champlain, which looks especially magical during the Christmas season when the historic buildings are adorned with festive decorations.
Why visit?
Old Québec uniquely blends European charm with North American history. It’s like a time capsule of European flavor without the need for a transatlantic flight.
The Downsides
Not many, really. While the number of tourists in Old Québec isn’t small during the summer, it doesn’t feel as overwhelming as popular European old towns. Unlike Prague’s city center, dominated by Airbnb, or Dubrovnik’s center, which gets seasonally overcrowded, tourism in Old Québec is successfully balanced with everyday life.
8. Old City of Cartagena (Ciudad Amurallada), Colombia
Cartagena’s Old Town (Ciudad Amurallada) is a walled city with colorful colonial buildings and flower-covered balconies that hold more than 500 years of history. Founded in 1533, by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, the city was named Cartagena after the Spanish city of the same name, as many of his sailors hailed from there. Thanks to its deep bay, Cartagena quickly became a key port for shipping gold and silver from the Americas to Europe. Between the 1500s and 1700s, pirates frequently attacked Cartagena, trying to steal its wealth. To protect it, the Spanish built massive stone defensive walls that still surround the city today. Visitors can walk along these perfectly preserved, roughly 11km walls and enjoy ocean views just like guards did in the 17th century.
Cartagena also served as the center of the Spanish Inquisition in South America, where alleged heretics were tortured and executed. This dark chapter is reflected in the Palace of the Inquisition, built in 1770. This iconic example of Spanish colonial and Baroque architecture, with its ornate stone gate and long balconies, was the headquarters of the Holy Inquisition from 1610 until Colombia’s independence in 1821. Speaking of independence, Cartagena played a crucial role in Colombia’s fight against Spanish rule from 1811-1821, earning itself the nickname “La Heroica” (The Heroic City).
In 1984, Cartagena’s historic center was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as one of the most complete examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the Americas. Its streets are lined with beautifully preserved, brightly painted buildings decorated with wooden balconies and vibrant bougainvilleas. The style blends Spanish Andalusian influences—seen in elaborate balconies, squares, and grand houses—with local Caribbean touches like vivid colors and thick coral-stone walls designed to keep the heat out.
The Old Town is compact and perfect for walking, divided into historic neighborhoods. Within the walls, you’ll find El Centro (also known as San Pedro, historically the elite district with the cathedral and many mansions) and San Diego (traditionally the merchants’ and middle-class neighborhood). Just beyond the walls lies Getsemaní, once a working-class area.
One of the most iconic landmarks is Torre del Reloj, the yellow clock tower marking the main entrance to the city. Originally the gateway had a drawbridge, but today it welcomes visitors into Plaza de los Coches—a bustling square that once hosted a slave market. The Cathedral of St. Catherine of Alexandria, finished in 1612, towers over the cityscape, a symbol of Cartagena’s historical importance as a Catholic stronghold.
Why Visit?
Cartagena’s Old Town is the kind of place where you can sip Colombian coffee in the morning under 400-year-old arches and later watch the sun set over the Caribbean Sea from centuries-old defensive walls. History is everywhere, but the vibe isn’t stuck in the past—you’ll hear salsa and champeta music drifting from doorways and see lively street performers in the squares at night. The blend of beautifully preserved colonial history and warm Afro-Caribbean culture gives Cartagena an energy that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The Downsides
However, Cartagena’s charm is increasingly affected by a booming tourism industry. Tourism in Colombia has hit record levels, and Cartagena has become known as South America’s leading honeymoon destination. Expect big crowds, especially on weekends. Because of its small size, the historic center can feel like a tourist trap at times, with aggressive street vendors, persistent tour sellers, and higher prices compared to other parts of Colombia.
9. Old Town of Lijiang, China
The Old Town of Lijiang is an 800-year-old settlement of the Naxi ethnic minority, famous for its maze of cobblestone streets, flowing canals, and stunning mountain backdrops. Its history began when the Naxi people settled in the fertile Lijiang Plain, establishing their early political and cultural center in Baisha during the Tang-Song era. By the 12th-13th century, Dayan (present-day Lijiang Old Town) became a major trading hub where caravans gathered at the crossroads of the Tea Horse Road and the Southern Silk Road.
The town’s golden age began when the Mu clan, hereditary Naxi leaders allied with the Ming dynasty, moved their capital from Baisha to Dayan in the late 14th century. They expanded the infrastructure with canals fed by the Black Dragon Pool and commissioned the Mu Family Mansion, fostering a cosmopolitan blend of Han Chinese, Tibetan, Bai, and Naxi traditions. Although Lijiang’s autonomy and commercial significance declined after the Qing dynasty abolished the Mu clan’s hereditary rule in 1723, its unique cultural and architectural heritage remained, preserving its identity as a crossroads of medieval empires and ethnic groups. Even though the town’s autonomy and commercial significance dwindled after Qing dynasty bureaucrats took control in 1723, its unique cultural and architectural heritage survived, preserving its identity as a crossroads of medieval empires and ethnicities.
The most recent major event occurred on February 3, 1996, when a devastating 7.0+ magnitude earthquake severely damaged many historic buildings. Despite the tragedy, this disaster raised global awareness of Lijiang’s cultural importance, leading to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. With support from the Chinese government and UNESCO, the damaged structures were successfully restored.
Lijiang Old Town is particularly unique because it was built without defensive walls—an absolute rarity among historical Chinese settlements. Local legend says the ruling Mu family avoided building walls due to superstition: putting the Chinese character “Mu” (木), representing their family, inside a frame (city walls) would form “Kun” (困), meaning “siege” or “trouble.” Additionally, Lijiang’s natural surroundings—like the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to the north and Lion Mountain to the west—provided natural barriers, making large-scale invasions difficult. The absence of walls allowed Lijiang to develop harmoniously with its environment, following mountain contours and water flows. This resulted in a seemingly unplanned yet highly functional labyrinth of streets, canals, and bridges.
These canals, fed by the Black Dragon Pool, earned Lijiang its nickname, the “Venice of the East.” Over 350 stone and wooden bridges span the extensive water network. Remarkably advanced for its time, the town’s water management system divides spring water into upper, middle, and lower pools, each serving different needs from drinking to laundry.
Lijiang Old Town covers about 7 km², though the official UNESCO World Heritage Site area spans around 1.456 km². The dominant architecture here is a mix of Naxi folk design with Chinese and Tibetan influences. Most buildings are two-story wooden houses with stone foundations, plastered or brick walls, and tiled roofs. Despite its modest size, Lijiang Old Town is packed with places to explore. The historic heart is Square Street (Sifang Street), once a bustling market square, now home to shops and cafes. A must-visit is the Mu Family Mansion—a restored complex of Naxi leaders’ palaces with elegant courtyards, gardens, and pavilions. For stunning panoramic views, visitors can hike up Lion Mountain to Wangu Tower, a five-story wooden pagoda offering sweeping vistas of Lijiang and the snow-capped mountains beyond.
Why Visit?
Lijiang combines breathtaking mountain scenery, intricate waterways, well-preserved traditional architecture, and vibrant ethnic culture. Walking along ancient cobblestone streets beside clear-flowing canals, visitors can experience a traditional townscape that has nearly disappeared in modern China. For some, the main draw is the chance to witness live performances of ancient Naxi music, where musicians in traditional attire play melodies and instruments passed down since the Ming dynasty.
The Downsides
Following the 1990s BBC documentary “Beyond the Clouds” that introduced Lijiang to the world and its subsequent UNESCO listing, Lijiang experienced an explosion in local and international tourism. The town’s identity transformed from a remote mountain community to one of China’s most visited ancient cities. This mass tourism led to significant commercialization. By the early 2000s, the old town’s economy had almost completely reoriented toward tourism, and within a few years after the earthquake, nearly every old residential house had been converted into a guesthouse, restaurant, or shop. Tourism numbers grow annually, increasing from 12.4 million in 2013 to 80.6 million in 2024.
Therefore, anyone visiting should prepare for crowds. At midday, the main streets around Sifang Square can be packed with tour groups, making it a shoulder-to-shoulder squeeze in narrow alleys. For some, Lijiang Old Town may feel overly touristy and lacking in authenticity, with rows of identical souvenir shops and bars catering to tourists. Additionally, due to its popularity, prices for food, accommodation, and more are generally higher here than elsewhere in Yunnan.
10. Old Havana (La Habana Vieja), Cuba
Old Havana, or La Habana Vieja, is the historic heart of Cuba’s capital, Havana, located on the island’s northern coast along Havana Bay. Founded in 1519, Havana was a key port city during Spanish colonial rule, becoming a major hub for trade and shipbuilding in the Caribbean. In 1607, it was officially declared the capital of Spanish-controlled Cuba, with its grand plazas and fortresses symbolizing Spanish power in the region. Havana played a central role in the Spanish-American War of 1898, which ultimately led to Spain losing control of Cuba. Later, under U.S. influence, the city saw new development around its historic core (like the El Capitolio building and luxurious hotels), although the colonial city center stayed largely untouched. After Fidel Castro’s Cuban Revolution in 1959, Old Havana gradually declined as resources shifted to rural areas.
By the late 20th century, many historic buildings had crumbled, prompting efforts to preserve them. In 1982, Old Havana and its fortifications were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This recognition spurred major restoration projects in the 1990s and 2000s, reviving colonial plazas, churches, and mansions, and turning Old Havana into a “living museum of Cuban heritage.”
Walking through Old Havana is like exploring five centuries of architecture. Baroque and neoclassical styles blend harmoniously in landmarks such as Havana Cathedral and Palacio de los Capitanes Generales. Many colonial buildings feature characteristic elements like arcaded verandas, wooden balconies, ornate wrought-iron gates, and central courtyards designed for tropical climates and Spanish city traditions. Mixed among colonial architecture are Art Nouveau and Art Deco touches, reflecting the city’s evolution in the 20th century.
Old Havana packs many of Cuba’s most famous landmarks into a walkable area. Its layout revolves around four historic plazas: Plaza de Armas (the oldest, flanked by the former Governors’ Palace and Castillo de la Real Fuerza), Plaza de la Catedral (home to the 18th-century baroque Cathedral of St. Christopher), Plaza Vieja (a beautiful square showcasing colonial and early-20th-century eclectic buildings), and Plaza de San Francisco (facing the harbor, with the Basilica of San Francisco and former customs house). Scattered through these squares and connecting streets are colonial palaces turned museums—like the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales (City Museum) and the Palacio del Segundo Cabo—as well as charming courtyards, outdoor cafés, and galleries.
Other must-see spots include the Malecón seafront promenade skirting Old Havana, the El Capitolio (Capitol Building) just outside the old quarter, and famous haunts like La Bodeguita del Medio and El Floridita—bars immortalized by Ernest Hemingway.
Why visit?
Visiting Old Havana feels like stepping into the Caribbean’s historic past, where time seems to have paused. You won’t find flashy billboards or neon signs—just ancient stone churches, vintage cars, and pastel-colored buildings glowing under tropical sunshine. One moment you’re standing in a 16th-century plaza surrounded by colonial architecture, and the next you’re cruising along the coast in a mint-green 1950s Chevrolet, as if you’ve wandered into an old postcard.
The Downsides
By 2025, Old Havana remains as charming as ever, but Cuba’s ongoing economic struggles continue to impact daily life and tourism. Locals often face challenges like power outages, fuel shortages, and rising prices due to inflation. While major hotels and tourist spots in Old Havana often have backup generators (so guests might not notice power cuts), many smaller businesses and homes don’t. Tourists staying in casas particulares (guesthouses) or Airbnbs might occasionally find themselves without air conditioning or lights during outages.
Efforts to solve economic challenges by boosting tourism haven’t fully succeeded yet. International visitor numbers are recovering slowly and still haven’t reached their peak levels from the 2010s. This means the usually crowded streets of Old Havana are noticeably quieter than before.
In summary, visiting Old Havana in 2025 offers a slightly different perspective: the historic landscape is as stunning and uncrowded as ever, but you’ll also see the reality of a city enduring tough times. Travelers should prepare for minor inconveniences (like occasional power outages or limited restaurant menus) and arm themselves with patience and empathy.