Perhaps your travel plans for 2020 were put on hold, or the thought of jet setting during a pandemic has put you off the idea completely. Either way, you’re stuck at home.
Thanks to COVID-19, virtual is a big part of our new reality. To embrace this new trend, we have listed some of the best virtual tours you can take right from your living room.
12 of the Best Virtual Tours to Try from Home
1. Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
Did you know that the number of waterfalls at this famed UNESCO World Heritage site varies according to season? The magnificent Iguazu Falls are deemed the world’s most extensive waterfall system.
You can experience the majesty of the falls with AirPano’s various virtual touring options. Enjoy interactive photos and videos of the incredible vistas from both the Brazilian and Argentinean sides, as well as viewing platforms, trails, or helicopter videos.
Start your tour now, and prepare to be amazed!
2. The Louvre, Paris
Easily one of the world’s most famous museums and possibly the most important. The Louvre is not only an incredible example of architectural design but is home to several iconic masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, the Virgin of the Rocks, and The Coronation of Napoleon.
The world-renowned museum hosts free virtual tours that take you through the Egyptian Antiquities, the remains of the Louvre’s Moat, and even the Galerie d’Apollon.
3. Anne Frank House, Amsterdam
Take a virtual stroll through Anne Frank’s hiding place where she wrote her esteemed diary that accounts her experiences as a young Jewish girl in the holocaust. Explore the Secret Annex and find out more about the riveting story that took place there.
4. Great Wall of China
The Great Wall boasts a rich, 2,000-year-old history and stretches over 3,000 miles/4,800 kilometres across several northern provinces in China. With over 10 million visitors each year, this is one of the world’s most-visited tourist attractions.
The virtual tour offers some of the best views of the iconic attraction. Virtually walk from the Jinshanling to the Simatai section of the wall (6.5 miles/10.5 km stretch), while experiencing multiple seasons along the way.
Start your walk along the Great Wall here.
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5. Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
Experience the grandeur of this Ancient Wonder of the World among the Egyptian desert sands and iconic tombs. The Pyramids of Giza overlook the bustling city of Cairo. These 4,500-year-old pyramids were built for royal mummies and their worldly effects so that they may be used in the afterlife.
Experience the behind-the-scenes Google street view tour and discover more about this historical attraction here.
6. Acropolis, Athens
Visit the famed UNESCO World Heritage Site, Acropolis and discover the rich history of Greece. This is rated one of the best virtual tours in the world for a reason. The attraction overlooks the city of Athens and is home to several temples. Courtesy of the Acropolis Restoration Service, the virtual tour allows you to visit the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike, taking you on an incredible journey of the significance of the Acropolis.
Start your virtual tour of these Athenian ruins here.
7. Taj Mahal, Agra
A majestic marble mausoleum in Agra, India, the Taj Mahal is another UNESCO World Heritage site that you can explore from the comfort of your sofa. Commissioned in 1632 by the emperor for his beloved wife, the “Crown Jewel of India” receives close to 8 million visitors a year. The Taj Mahal was declared one of the winners of the “New 7 Wonders of the World” in 2007.
Take a walk around this iconic Indian attraction with a guided Google Maps tour and experience both “postcard views” or “rarely-seen perspectives”. You can get up close and personal and enjoy hand-carved details, or take a step back and experience the expansive landscapes of the Taj Mahal.
8. Jerusalem, Israel
Considered holy ground to Jews, Christians, and Muslims, Jerusalem is one of the world’s most famous pilgrimage destinations. Experience 360-degree views and take a virtual adventure through the abundant Holy Land. Discover Jerusalem’s most iconic attractions like the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the Dome of the Rock, the Western Wall, and so much more.
Take your virtual tour through Jerusalem now.
9. Colosseum, Rome
Located in the heart of Rome, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheatre ever built and can hold between 50,000 and 80,000 spectators. The structure was notoriously used for gladiator contests, mock sea battles, executions, and re-enactments of famous battles. Brought to you by Google Arts & Culture, you can enjoy a virtual tour around the corridors of the iconic arena’s underground.
Uncover the rich history of this Roman attraction now.
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10. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Brought to you by WildEarth Safari, take a virtual safari through the Kruger National Park right from the comfort (and safety) of your home. One of Africa’s largest game reserves, the Kruger National Park is home to the most incredible species of wildlife, including lion, elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, and Cape buffalo. You can also expect to see zebras, giraffes, hippos, antelopes, cheetahs, crocodiles, and hyenas. WildEarth broadcasts 3-hour long live safaris at sunrise and sunset every day.
Take a walk on the wild side with a virtual safari today.
11. Burj Khalifa, Dubai
A stone’s throw away from the world-famous Dubai Mall is the world’s tallest building – the breath-taking Burj Khalifa. Providing stability in the midst of intense desert winds, the floors are arranged in a unique spiral formation. Discover more interesting facts about this Arabian architectural masterpiece with Google Street View. Visit different rooms within the mighty Burj and explore behind-the-scenes sections which show you views from the 80th floor – a window washer’s viewpoint! This virtual tour is not for those with a fear of heights.
Start your ascent now.
12. Buckingham Palace, London
Take a peek inside the official residence of the Queen of England. Visiting the Royal Palace is tricky since it is only open to the public between July and October. Still, this virtual tour allows visitors to explore the Buckingham Palace year-round – experience the ornate rooms and iconic art housed within the Palace walls.
Get ready for your royal tour now.
Satisfy your wanderlust right now and explore some of the world’s most famous tourist destinations up close and personal. Don’t be afraid to do some digging as there are many more virtual tours to discover, featuring obscure attractions and vibrant cities. You could start in France and be in Egypt within an hour. Stay safe and happy travels!
