Cultural landmarks symbolize the identity and spirit of the nations that build them. They are the historical, cultural, and emotional anchors for cultures past and present. And they have much to teach visitors from all over the world.

Join us on a journey to some of the world’s most well-known cultural icons, and discover the landmarks that define the spirit of nations.

Eiffel Tower, France

This imposing wrought iron lattice structure stands tall over France’s largest city and capital, Paris. A symbol of French craftsmanship and Parisian elegance, this masterpiece was designed by architect Stephen Sauvestre and built by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair.

These two men had no way of knowing it would become such a loved tourist attraction to this day. Today, the Eiffel Tower is the world’s most visited monument and a UNESCO Heritage site.

Normandy Beaches, France

The name Normandy will forever be associated with one of the world’s most significant military operations — D-Day. On June 6th, 1944, Allied forces landed on the shores of Normandy, France to face the Nazi forces of World War II.

Although thousands lost their lives on Normandy’s beaches, it served as a turning point in the War. And their brave sacrifices are remembered to this day, with historical tours such as the famous Band of Brothers Tour.

If you plan to visit France to visit the Eiffel Tower, be sure to include Normandy in your itinerary, too. A Band of Brothers tour will immerse you in the history of this site. You’ll retrace the footsteps of the fallen who fought against tyranny and defined modern history.

Great Wall of China

It is said that the Wall was built as a defensive measure against northern nomadic invasions. It is also claimed that it promoted national integration and secured trade routes. Whatever the case, it remains one of the largest construction projects ever undertaken.

The first stages started in 770, and the project spanned several dynasties. Stretching for approximately 13,171 miles (21,196 kilometers), this iconic structure remains a testament to willpower and determination.

It is still possible to walk along sections of the Great Wall of China but be prepared to set aside several hours to a full day.

The Taj Mahal, India

India has a long and rich history dating back thousands of years. It is home to unusual cultural practices that those in the West may consider a little weird, like the Naga Panchami snake-worshipping festival. But it is most famous for a marble mausoleum known as the Taj Mahal.

It was built to be the final resting place of Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved wife of the fifth Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. The emperor was eventually laid to rest in the same mausoleum complex. Many consider this the best example of Mughal architecture, which is a fusion of Islamic, Persian, and Indian styles.

Millions of visitors, both foreign and domestic, visit this marble testament of love each year.

Statue of Liberty, USA

If you enjoy the great outdoors, exploring national parks in an RV is a great way to see America. But there are many exciting landmarks and icons to stop and admire on a road trip, too. And the most famous one of all is, of course, the Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty, or Lady Liberty as she is often called, stands 305 ft (93 m) tall, keeping a watchful eye over New York Harbor. For years she had represented freedom, welcoming new arrivals arriving by sea in search of equality and democracy.

A climb to the crown is well worth it, offering panoramic views of New York City.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Now it’s off to Southern Peru where we find what remains of a 15th-century Inca citadel, known as Machu Picchu. This icon of the Incan empire features a military tower, a temple district with temples and shrines, and much more.

The Incas ruled a vast empire that extended through what is now modern-day Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador. Little remains of this once great empire, but Machu Picchu provides visitors with a closer look into this significant pre-Colombian culture.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

When you hear the name Egypt, we’re willing to bet that images of desert sands and ancient pyramids spring to mind, instantly. And with good reason. The pyramids of Giza have certainly attracted much attention, mostly about how the ancients achieved such a feat.

The debate about how these megalithic structures were built rages on. But millions of tourists flock to see them every year and it’s not hard to see why. Indeed, this impressive resting place of the pharaohs and wonder of the ancient world is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.