For centuries, the legendary seven ancient wonders captured the global imagination, but today, only the Great Pyramid of Giza endures. In a monumental modern project, over 100 million people worldwide voted to crown a new list of seven wonders, celebrating humanity's most spectacular cultural achievements.
From Ancient Lists to Modern Marvels
The original list of ancient wonders, compiled by Hellenic travellers as early as the fifth century BC, included marvels like the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Lighthouse of Alexandria. Ravaged by time and natural disasters, these sites were largely lost to history. In 2007, the New7Wonders Foundation established a new list to honour our planet's diverse heritage, creating the definitive modern wonders for a new generation of explorers.
The New Seven Wonders and How to Experience Them
1. The Roman Colosseum, Italy
Dominating the heart of Rome, the Colosseum is the largest amphitheatre ever built. Constructed in the 1st century AD under the Flavian emperors, it hosted legendary gladiator battles and public spectacles. Today, it stands as an eternal symbol of ancient Roman engineering and life.
How to visit: Trailfinders offers a four-day Rome city break from £799 per person. The itinerary includes private airport transfers, three nights in a four-star hotel, and tours of the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and Trevi Fountain.
2. Petra, Jordan
Carved into blush-coloured sandstone, the ancient city of Petra is Jordan's most treasured archaeological site. This Nabataean capital, later inhabited by Romans and Byzantines, features breathtaking structures hewn directly from the rock face over 2,000 years ago.
How to visit: Intrepid provides an eight-day Jordan adventure from £1,892, featuring two full days exploring Petra, a Dead Sea visit, and a trip to the Martian-like landscape of Wadi Rum. The package includes meals, hotel accommodation, and an airport transfer.
3. Christ the Redeemer, Brazil
Completed in 1931 after nine years of construction, the 98-foot Christ the Redeemer statue watches over Rio de Janeiro from Corcovado Mountain. This reinforced concrete marvel, designed by French-Polish sculptor Paul Landowski, has become Brazil's most iconic landmark.
How to visit: Intrepid's eight-day Best of Brazil tour starts from £675, offering time in Rio to visit the statue, plus excursions to Paraty's rainforests and the pristine beaches of Ilha Grande. The package covers four breakfasts, transport, and hotels.
4. The Taj Mahal, India
Emperor Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal over 17 years as a mausoleum for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Completed in 1648, this UNESCO World Heritage Site represents the pinnacle of Indo-Islamic architecture with its stunning white marble domes and arches.
How to visit: Explore India's Golden Triangle on Intrepid's eight-day tour from £540 per person. The journey covers Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, where you'll witness the Taj Mahal's splendour alongside other Mughal wonders like Akbar's Mausoleum.
5. Machu Picchu, Peru
This 15th-century Incan citadel, rediscovered in 1911, sits majestically where the Andes meet the Amazon Basin. Machu Picchu's precise function remains mysterious, but its sophisticated stone structures blend seamlessly with the mountainous landscape.
How to visit: Intrepid's nine-day Peruvian experience starts from £1,877, featuring a guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploration of Cusco, and a visit to Lake Titicaca. The package includes select meals, transport, and accommodation.
6. Chichén Itzá, Mexico
The sacred Mayan city of Chichén Itzá has stood for over 1,000 years. Its centrepiece, the 98-foot El Castillo pyramid, demonstrates the advanced astronomical knowledge of the Maya-Toltec civilisation that once thrived here.
How to visit: Trailfinders offers a five-day Mayan sites tour from £1,585 per person, including an early morning visit to Chichén Itzá, exploration of Uxmal, and a trip to the Celestún Biosphere to see thousands of pink flamingos.
7. The Great Wall of China, China
Stretching an incredible 13,000 miles, the Great Wall represents the most ambitious construction project in human history. First connected in 220 BC and continually developed until the 17th century, it symbolises China's historical defence strategies and architectural prowess.
How to visit: Intrepid's eight-day China Highlights tour begins at £1,183, travelling from Shanghai to Beijing with a stay at a guesthouse near the Wall. The itinerary includes a full day exploring this ancient marvel and witnessing its breathtaking sunset views.
Planning Your Wonder-Filled Journey
These seven modern wonders offer more than just photo opportunities; they provide profound connections to human history and achievement. Whether you choose to marvel at the Roman Colosseum's grandeur or hike along the Great Wall of China, each site promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates our shared global heritage. With numerous tour operators offering comprehensive packages, fulfilling your bucket list travel dreams has never been more accessible.
