10 Oldest Cities on Earth You Can Still Visit

10 Oldest Cities on Earth You Can Still Visit

Susa photo by Carole Raddato

Lisbon photo by Joaomartinho63

Athens photo by
Steve Swayne

Ever wonder where you can experience history firsthand while exploring modern cities? For travelers looking to connect with the past, finding the right places to visit can be a challenge. You’re not alone. Many people seek destinations that offer both ancient significance and contemporary life, but it’s tough to know where to go.

That’s where we come in. With years of experience, we’ve put together a list of the oldest cities still welcoming visitors today. In this article, you’ll explore:

  • Jericho, Palestine – The world’s oldest city
  • Byblos, Lebanon – A Phoenician gem
  • Athens, Greece – Birthplace of democracy

Keep reading and find out how you can experience these cities, connecting with both ancient history and modern cultures.

1. Jericho, Palestine

Jericho, Palestine photo by A. Sobkowski

Jericho, near the Jordan River in the West Bank, is one of the world’s oldest cities, inhabited for over 11,000 years. It has ancient walls built around 6800 BCE. Visitors can explore sites like Tell es-Sultan to see layers of history. Jericho’s rich past makes it a fascinating place to visit.

This video is made by The Holy Land, by Zahi Shaked

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2. Byblos, Lebanon

Byblos, Lebanon photo by Orient

Byblos, over 7,000 years old, is one of the world’s continuously inhabited cities and was a key Phoenician trade center. It has historic sites like the Byblos Citadel, Ancient Port, and Phoenician Temples.

The city also created the Phoenician alphabet. Today, Byblos blends history with modern life, offering markets and restaurants.

This video is made by Nomac Guides

3. Argos, Greece

Argos, Greece photo by Sarah Murray

Argos, one of the world’s oldest cities, dates back to around 5000 BCE. It has ancient sites like a large theater and Mycenaean ruins. The city hosts a summer festival with performances in the theater. Argos offers a great mix of history and culture in the Peloponnese region.

This video is made by Travel the Greek Way

4. Damascus, Syria

Damascus, Syria photo by Ai@ce

Damascus, one of the oldest cities in the world, has been inhabited for over 11,000 years. Known as the “City of Jasmine,” it has key sites like the Umayyad Mosque and ancient city walls. The city mixes ancient ruins with modern life and is an important cultural hub.

This video is made by Drew Binsky

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5. Susa, Iran

Susa, Iran photo by فلورانس

Susa, in Iran, is one of the oldest cities in the world, dating back to 4200 BCE. It was a key center for the Elamite, Persian, and Babylonian empires. Visitors can see the Acropolis, ancient palaces, and museums with historical artifacts.

Modern Susa, known as Shush, still attracts tourists with its rich history. Archaeological findings show advanced cultural practices, offering a look into one of the world’s earliest civilizations.

This video is made by BBC Select

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6. Faiyum, Egypt

Faiyum, Egypt photo by Adelbayoumi

Faiyum, one of Egypt’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dates back to around 4000 BCE. Located southwest of Cairo, it was a key agricultural center. It was home to Crocodilopolis, a trade hub.

Notable sites include the Hawara Pyramid and Faiyum Oasis. The city blends ancient and later cultures, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s long history.

This video is made by Curtis Ryan Woodside

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7. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

Plovdiv, Bulgaria photo by Община Пловдив

Plovdiv, an ancient city over 6,000 years old, has Thracian, Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences. Key sites include the Roman Amphitheater and fortress walls. The Old Town has colorful 19th-century houses, and Kapana is known for arts.

Plovdiv, named European Capital of Culture in 2019, offers a mix of history, modern life, and local food.

This video is made by Taylor & Jordan Travel

8. Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece photo by dronepicr

Athens, one of the oldest cities, has been inhabited for nearly 7,000 years. It was the birthplace of democracy and philosophy. Key sites include the Acropolis with the Parthenon, the Agora, and the Theater of Dionysus.

Today, Athens is a busy city with a mix of ancient history and modern life. Visitors can explore museums and vibrant neighborhoods, experiencing both old and new Greek culture.

This video is made by Travelmoji

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9. Varanasi, India

Varanasi, India photo by Santosh Kumar Velamala

Varanasi, one of the oldest cities, sits on the Ganges River. It’s a key Hindu religious center with a history over 5,000 years old. Major sites include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dasaswamedh Ghat, and Sarnath.

The city is known for its temples, rituals, and arts. Busy streets sell silk and religious items. Many believe dying here brings liberation from rebirth. Varanasi blends spirituality with everyday life.

This video is made by DW Documentary

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10. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal photo by Deensel

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, is one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, dating back to 1,200 B.C. It has a rich history influenced by Phoenician, Roman, and Moorish cultures. Key sites include Castelo de São Jorge, Alfama, Belém Tower, and Jerónimos Monastery.

The city was important in maritime exploration and rebuilt after a 1755 earthquake. Today, Lisbon blends history with modern life, featuring lively streets and cultural landmarks.

This video is made by Rick Steves’ Europe

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10 Oldest Cities on Earth You Can Still Visit: A Recap

This video is made by TopTenz

These ten cities are some of the oldest places still lived in today. They offer a mix of ancient history and modern life. Visitors can see ancient ruins, explore cultural landmarks, and even visit sites designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site to learn about the people and events that shaped these cities.

Each city tells a unique story, making them special destinations for anyone interested in history.

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