For history lovers and adventure seekers alike, visiting one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities is like walking through time. These urban centers have been alive for millennia—through empires, wars, and revolutions—and they still pulse with vibrant local life today. They’re not just relics; they’re living museums worth exploring in 2025.
What sets these 16 cities apart isn’t just age—it’s living heritage. Visitors can wander ancient ruins, explore historic quarters, and enjoy charming cafés amid streets that have seen thousands of years pass beneath their feet. Many remain cultural centers, not just archaeological parks, offering genuine local experiences woven into layers of history.
If you’re planning your next trip, consider weaving one of these ancient cities still worth visiting in 2025 into your itinerary. From Mesopotamia’s oldest tales to Mediterranean harbors steeped in myth, these destinations offer timeless allure and unforgettable discovery.
Jericho, West Bank
Jericho, a city with roots tracing back to 9,000 BC, is a living testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Known as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, it offers a journey through time with its ancient ruins. Visitors can explore Tell es-Sultan, the archaeological site that whispers tales of early civilization.
The ancient Tower of Jericho stands as a symbol of the city’s historical significance. Today, Jericho blends its rich past with vibrant modern life, inviting travelers to experience its unique charm and enduring legacy.
Damascus, Syria
Damascus, possibly inhabited since 10,000 BC, is a city where history and modernity coexist. Its heart beats in the Great Umayyad Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Wandering through its bustling souqs, one can feel the echoes of centuries-old trade and tradition.
The city’s living architecture tells stories of empires and cultures that have left their mark. Despite challenges, Damascus remains a beacon of resilience and continuity, inviting visitors to explore its layers of history and vibrant present.
Aleppo, Syria
Aleppo, dating back to 5,000 BC, is a city with a rich tapestry of history woven through its streets. The Citadel of Aleppo rises majestically, a fortress that has withstood the tests of time and conflict. Its traditional markets, vibrant and bustling, offer a glimpse into the city’s enduring spirit.
Despite recent hardships, Aleppo’s resilience shines through, making it a poignant reminder of the past and a hopeful symbol for the future. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of markets, empires, and the indomitable will of its people.
Byblos (Jbeil), Lebanon
Byblos, founded around 5,000 BC by the Phoenicians, is a coastal city where ancient history meets contemporary charm. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, its ruins speak of a civilization that thrived by the sea. The vibrant modern harbor offers a contrast, bustling with life and activity.
Byblos invites visitors to wander through its cobblestone streets, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. From ancient temples to lively markets, the city is a blend of past and present, offering a unique journey through time.
Sidon, Lebanon
Sidon, a cradle of the Phoenician civilization since around 4,000 BC, is a city steeped in myths and legends. Its archaeological sites offer a window into a past where sea ports thrived with trade and culture. The sea castle stands as a sentinel, watching over the city’s storied history.
Modern-day Sidon is a bustling hub, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with contemporary life. Visitors can explore its rich cultural tapestry, discovering tales of gods, heroes, and ordinary people who shaped its legacy.
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Plovdiv, with settlements dating back to 7,000 BC, is a city where art and history converge. Known for its Roman amphitheaters, the city offers performances that echo the past. The Ottoman baths and cobblestone streets of the old town create a picturesque setting.
Plovdiv’s artistic atmosphere is palpable, with galleries and cultural events that celebrate creativity and tradition. As one of Europe’s oldest cities, it continues to inspire visitors with its rich heritage and vibrant cultural scene, making it a must-visit destination.
Argos, Greece
Argos, occupied since roughly 5,000 BC, claims the title of Greece’s longest continuously inhabited city. Mycenaean ruins add an ancient allure, telling stories of warriors and legends. Classical-era monuments stand as testaments to a glorious past.
Nestled in the heart of the Peloponnese, Argos invites exploration and discovery. Its rich history is complemented by a vibrant local culture, where tradition meets modernity in a harmonious blend. Visitors can wander through its streets, uncovering layers of time in a city that proudly wears its heritage.
Athens, Greece
Athens, with human presence dating back to the 11th–7th millennia BC, is the cradle of Western civilization. The Acropolis, a symbol of ancient Greek glory, stands majestically over the city. Visitors can explore the ancient Agora, where democracy was born.
Modern Athens is a vibrant metropolis, where history and contemporary life coexist. The city’s rich cultural scene offers museums, theaters, and galleries that celebrate its storied past. Athens invites travelers to experience its dynamic energy and timeless beauty, making it a destination like no other.
Susa (Shush), Iran
Susa, a city important for over 4,000 years, offers a glimpse into the heart of ancient Persia. Known for its ziggurat and religious significance, Susa’s history is deeply intertwined with the Elamite era and Persian rule.
The city’s archaeological sites reveal the grandeur of past civilizations, while its cultural heritage continues to inspire and captivate visitors. As one of Iran’s most historically significant cities, Susa invites travelers to explore its rich legacy and discover the stories etched into its ancient stones.
Faiyum, Egypt
Faiyum, founded around 5,200 BC as part of Crocodilopolis, is a unique cultural hub near Cairo. Its ancient temples stand as monuments to a rich and storied past. The surrounding wetlands offer a natural paradise, teeming with wildlife and beauty.
Modern Faiyum is a vibrant city that balances the old and the new. Visitors can explore its historic sites while enjoying the warmth of Egyptian hospitality. Whether drawn by history or nature, travelers will find Faiyum to be a captivating and enriching destination.
Kashan, Iran
Kashan, inhabited for at least 7,500 years, is a city that celebrates Persian architecture and cultural heritage. Its historic gardens, a testament to the art of Persian landscaping, offer a serene escape.
The city’s royal houses and traditional bazaars reflect a rich tapestry of history and artistry. Kashan invites visitors to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity, where the beauty of the past enhances the vibrancy of contemporary life. It’s a city where every corner reveals a story waiting to be told.
Mtskheta, Georgia
Mtskheta, established in the 5th century BC, is a city steeped in spiritual and historical significance. Recognized by UNESCO for its early Christian architecture, it offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere.
The Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, a masterpiece of religious art, stands as a symbol of Georgia’s enduring faith. Mtskheta invites visitors to explore its sacred sites and experience the timeless beauty of its landscapes. As one of Georgia’s oldest cities, it continues to inspire with its rich cultural heritage and tranquil charm.
Yerevan, Armenia
Yerevan, founded in 782 BC as the Erebuni Fortress, is a city where ancient history and vibrant modern culture coexist. As one of the oldest capital cities, it offers a dynamic blend of archaeological sites and contemporary life.
The city’s lively atmosphere is palpable, with bustling markets and cultural festivals celebrating Armenian heritage. Yerevan’s past is ever-present, with Mount Ararat serving as a majestic backdrop. Visitors can explore its rich history while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of its people.
Cadiz, Spain
Cadiz, a Phoenician trading city dating back to around 1,100 BC, is the oldest city in Western Europe. Its maritime heritage is reflected in the ancient city walls and bustling harbor.
Today, Cadiz is a vibrant city known for its seaside charm and cultural festivals. Visitors can explore its narrow streets and savor the flavors of its cuisine. The city’s rich history is complemented by its lively atmosphere, making it a destination that captivates the senses and offers a journey through time.
Luoyang, China
Luoyang, founded around 1,600 BC, is one of China’s oldest cities. Its history as an ancient capital is enriched by the presence of the Longmen Grottoes, a treasure trove of Buddhist art.
The city’s imperial relics and cultural heritage continue to captivate visitors. Luoyang offers a unique glimpse into China’s illustrious past, with its temples and historic sites standing as testaments to its enduring legacy. Visitors can experience the harmony of history and modern life in this fascinating city.