10 Most Stunning Walled Cities In The World: A Traveller’s Guide

Galle, Sri LankaA UNESCO-listed coastal city fortified by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, Galle is famed for its ramparts, bastions, and preserved colonial streets overlooking the Indian Ocean.York, EnglandYork’s medieval walls stretch over 3 km, encircling historic lanes, ancient gates, and views over York Minster. They reflect Roman origins and centuries of English military architecture.Dubrovnik, CroatiaEncircled by limestone walls rising above the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is renowned for its intact fortifications, sea bastions, and historic Old Town—once a proud maritime republic.Tallinn, EstoniaTallinn’s Old Town preserves towers, cobbled lanes, and medieval walls that once protected the Hanseatic city. Many original defence towers still stand in excellent condition.Pingyao, ChinaA UNESCO World Heritage city, Pingyao retains Ming-era walls, watchtowers, and ancient streets. Its massive ramparts remain among China’s best-preserved traditional urban fortifications.Carcassonne, FranceCarcassonne’s double-walled fortifications and 53 towers form one of Europe’s most dramatic medieval citadels. Its restoration by Viollet-le-Duc revived its iconic Gothic–Romanesque appearance.Kotor, MontenegroKotor’s stone walls climb steeply into surrounding mountains, enclosing a Venetian Old Town with cathedrals, courtyards, and narrow lanes sheltered by centuries-old fortifications.Jaisalmer, IndiaOne of the world’s few “living forts,” Jaisalmer Fort houses homes, temples, and shops within its golden sandstone walls. Its bastions rise dramatically above the Thar Desert.Avila, SpainAvila’s towering medieval walls, lined with turrets and battlements, encircle a historic city of Romanesque and Gothic monuments. The illuminated walls are among Europe’s best preserved.Orchha, IndiaOrchha’s fortified medieval settlement sits beside the Betwa River, with palace complexes, temples, and walls built by Bundela rulers. Its gateways and ramparts reflect robust Rajput defence traditions.5 UNESCO Heritage Sites That Prove Bhutan Is Truly The Last Shangri-LaRead More