5 famous sights and landmarks you can explore virtually

Doesn’t it seem like now you can’t cross borders, you want more than ever to visit those sights and landmarks on your bucket list? Thankfully, many of the locations of your dreams are actually available to explore online. Here are our picks of our favorite five.

1. The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is probably China’s most famous landmark. More than 13,000 miles long, this ancient wall is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Originally conceived by Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the third century B.C. as a protective measure against invaders, this amazing structure can be viewed online today at this link here, where you can virtually walk along its famous pathway and look down at the valleys below.

2. The Taj Mahal

Google Arts and Culture have digitized a huge amount of resources in time for quarantine. One of the many sights you can explore on their database of maps and tours is the Taj Mahal. This incredible mausoleum of white marble, built between 1631 and 1648 under emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, is one of the most distinctive images of India and another of the New 7 Wonders of the World. We know you can’t get to India right now, so simply click here to see it come to life.

3. Disney World

I don’t know about you, but we need a little fun in our lives right now. That’s why we’re heading straight for virtual Disney World. Yes, you read that right—you can now experience your favorite roller coasters online, from Big Thunder Mountain, to Jungle Cruise to the Haunted Mansion, all for free. The Youtube channel Virtual Disney World has a selection of 360º interactive videos which take you through the rides like you’re sitting in one of the seats yourself. It’s a pretty realistic experience which makes for the perfect way to relax after a long day.

4. Angkor Wat

This incredible “city of temples” located in the heart of Cambodia can now be explored online. The largest religious monument in the world, Angkor Wat was originally built as a Hindu temple complex in the first half of the 12th century, from which it was gradually transformed into a centre of Buddhist worship. Explore the five towers of Angkor Wat and the surrounding temples in the virtual tour at Virtual Angkor. The project even includes 360º video simulations by archaeologists, historians and CGI artists which recreate life as it was in the 13th century.

5. Palace of Versailles

Located in Versailles, France, the Palace of Versailles is described on its website as “one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art” and this isn’t wrong at all. What began as Louis XIII's old hunting pavilion was transformed and extended by his son, Louis XIV, and is now one of the most beautiful and embellished residences in the world, from the Hall of Mirrors to the King's Grand Apartments and beyond. Thanks to Google Arts and Culture, you can now explore the interior of this opulent residence, listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years, from the comfort of your living room. From high ceilings to precious artworks to glamorous, historic furnishings, this famous French landmark is sure to intrigue you (if not give you more than a little home-envy). You can find the virtual tour online by clicking here.