1. Colosseum and Pula Arena
One of the most recognizable and popular sights in the world has got to be the Colosseum. But did you know about its exact copy in Croatia? The ancient Roman amphitheater in Pula is the only arena with 4 remaining towers and 3 architectural orders.
2. Notre-Dame de Paris and Amiens Cathedral
Both of these gothic churches are located in France and almost look exactly the same. While the Notre-Dame is located in Paris, the Amiens Cathedral is located in the north of the country. But, how did the Notre-Dame rise to fame? Its popularity increased when Victor Hugo wrote a novel about a gypsy named Esmeralda. Though the cathedral in Amiens may not be as popular, you can visit it any time of the year with less crowds.
3. Machu Picchu and Isla del Sol
Machu Picchu is the most popular Inca city. Yet there is no food or water and only a limited number of tourists are allowed to pass through. It is also pretty tiring and expensive to visit. As an alternative, go to Bolivia and another Inca city, Isa del Sol.
4. Stonehenge and Avebury
Stonehenge is perhaps one of the most overrated sights. You cannot touch the stones, you can't go inside, and if it rains, you have no shelter. It also costs a lot of money to visit the Stonehenge. But, just 30km away, you can find other stones with a long history. The Avebury stones can be seen for free.
5. Petra and Lalibela
For an ancient fairy tale, Petra is definitely worth a visit. But the crowds of tourists and developed infrastructure can slightly spoil the impression, leaving you little time to enjoy the beauty. Alternatively, Lalibela in Ethiopia is full of churches and cathedrals carved in stone. The most unusual being the Church of Saint George.
6. Angkor Wat and Borobudur
Until recently, Angkor Wat had been an abandoned Buddhist temple. Now it has become a popular sight and tourists from all over the world enjoy the architecture of the temple every day, exploring its territories in search of enlightenment. Yet as beautiful as it may be, the ancient Borobudur temple in Indonesia does not see as many tourists.
7. Saint Basil’s Cathedral and the Church of the Savior on Blood
Saint Basil is one of the most recognizable cathedrals in Russia. Yet few people know about the church in Saint Petersburg which was built in the image and likeness of the Moscow cathedral.
8. Acropolis and Ephesus
The remains of ancient theatres and temples with columns are all associated with Greece. And while these ruins are a sight to see, neighboring Turkey has lots to offer too. The ancient Ephesus in particular, is worth a visit. Though it may not be as popular as the Acropolis, it is still historically significant.
9. The Golden Gate Bridge and 25 de Abril Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic in the world. Yet you do not need to travel across the globe as there are many bridges that resemble this stunning bridge. One such bridge is located in Portugal.
10. Big Ben and Parliament Hill
Not everyone may know that the Canadians have their own version of Big Ben. The Parliament Hill building is in the neo-gothic style with the Peace Tower and a huge clock face.
