The top tourist attractions have their own gravity, pulling millions of people into their orbits every single year. There is no specific formula that we can say drives the demand either; some spots feel like the center of the universe, while others rely on natural beauty to attract people.

Here are top 9 tourist attraction sites in 9 places that you should visit when you still have the energy to tour the world.

1. Times Square – NYC United States

Being the most popular tourist attraction in the world, the Times Square certainly has a lot to offer. It features flashing signs, theaters, stores, large crowds, and hot dog carts. In simple terms, it features everything that makes New York, New York. So, if you are fascinated by these, taking a visit to the Times Square is something you should do while in New York City.

The Times Square is regarded as the ‘Crossroads of the World’, which alone make it worth visiting.

Tip: check also other things to do in New England.

2. Temples of Angkor – Cambodia

Being one of the greatest temples in the world, Angkor could seem a bit off the grid in Buddhist Cambodia. However, this eye-catching monument is the biggest treasure of a Hindu kingdom, which once stretched as far as Southern China, Laos, and Burma. Even in a region gifted with lots of temples, Angkor is simply extraordinary. Hewn from thousands of sandstones, and carved with legends from the Puranas, Ramayana, and Mahabharata, the temples of Angkor are a true representation of heaven on earth.

3. Niagara Falls – USA & Canada

Being one of the most popular natural attractions, the Niagara Falls are simply majestic. If you are fascinated by lots of water, there is plenty here. In fact, over 700,000 gallons of water go over the falls each second. As a tourist here, you can see individual falls from the lookouts on the US and Canadian sides. You could also get a different view with boat or helicopter tours.

Check out this Infographic of most-visited tourist attractions in the world

4. The Great Wall of China – China

This man-made construction with numerous twist and turns stretches over 13,000 miles from east to west. It was completely built during the Ming Dynasty. The Great Wall attracts over 10 million visitors annually, a factor that could deter seasoned travelers. However, even with the hassle of trying to snap a picture without other people wandering in and out of it, this magnificent structure is still worth your visit. Don’t wait too long though – 30% of this structure has disappeared due to human attraction and erosion.

Being in the presence of this massive architectural feature is something that should be in each and every traveler’s bucket list.

5. Victoria Peak – Hong Kong

Being one of the most funicular railways in the world, Victoria Peak offers a panoramic view of the city of Hong Kong at 1,300 feet above sea level. While here, you will enjoy a breathtaking steep ride up the mountain. The temperatures on the Victoria Peak are cooler than you would find down the city, offering a great way for you to relax. On clear days, this place rewards you with a fascinating view of the city, outlying islands, and water. Another famous spot, is so-called “Suicide Cliff” with panoramic views of Hong-Kong.

If you are a lover of heights with spectacular urban views, then you must visit Hong Kong. There are also many other spectacular things you can do in Hong Kong: Hong Kond Disneyland, Lantau Island, visit famous night markets, go to Ocean Park, etc.

6. Machu Picchu – Peru

The Machu Picchu, a stone citadel sitting high up on the Andes Mountains gets a lot of praise from tourists and should be a major destination for anyone travelling to Peru.

Going for a hike in the Machu Picchu is a rite of passage for any traveler in Peru. The main reason why people are attracted to this place is the mystery behind how the city is able to cling to impossibly precipitous slopes. How this happened is just unbelievable and mind-blowing.

Being a cultural and natural UNSECO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu, the most visited tourist attraction in Peru, is a place you cannot afford not to check out when in Peru.

7. Aya Sofya – Turkey

With a mosque, church, and museum under one roof, Aya Sofya is a structure like no other on planet earth. The building defies easy categorization in the same way it defied the rules of architecture when being built over 1500 years ago. The man behind everything you see here was Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. Justinian wanted a cathedral that would surpass the awe of Byzantium’s sister city, Rome. He also wanted something that would mimic the majestic look of heaven on earth. His wish was granted and today, Aya Sofya is still a dominant in the skylines of contemporary Istanbul.

8. Petra – Jordan

The greatest thing about Petra is the rocks’ color and how sunlight reflects upon them. There are many things to discover here and a donkey ride would come in handy during your expedition. There is a good reason why this historical and archaeological city is in every traveler’s bucket list. The Monastery and the Treasury are well preserved, especially bearing in mind that they were built in 312 BC.

The city is widely known for its water conduit system and stunning rock-cut architecture. Petra has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. It is described as the most precious cultural properties ever.

9. Blue Lagoon – Iceland

This popular spa is a must visit for any tourist travelling to Iceland. This man-made bath came about after the formation of a geothermal power plant runoff in a pool. After some time, locals started realizing the healing benefits that came with swimming in it. A mixture of silica and sulfur has been proven to have positive effects on various ailments. This factor influenced the development of the Blue Lagoon that we know of today. Additionally, the milky blue waters have become a major feature in photos, increasing the Blue Lagoon’s lure and appeal. Despite the high entrance prices and large crowds here, the Blue Lagoon remains to be a coveted experience.

There you have! The 9 best places you can ever visit.