7 Cemeteries Worth Traveling For (Respectfully!): The World’s Most Beautiful Resting Places
Look, I get it. When most people think about vacation planning, cemeteries probably rank somewhere between “visit the world’s largest ball of yarn” and “take a guided tour of a sewage treatment plant” on their bucket list. But here’s the thing—some of the world’s most breathtaking places happen to be where dead people hang out permanently.
Before you start questioning my life choices, hear me out. These aren’t your typical creepy graveyards from horror movies. We’re talking about architectural masterpieces, historical goldmines, and frankly, some of the most peaceful spots you’ll ever find. Plus, the residents are excellent listeners and never complain about your photography skills.
Why Cemeteries Deserve a Spot on Your Travel Itinerary
Cemetery tourism isn’t some weird gothic trend that’ll disappear faster than your motivation to exercise after New Year’s. These places are legitimate cultural treasures that happen to double as eternal neighborhoods. They’re basically outdoor museums where the exhibits just happen to be, well, permanently resting.
The best cemeteries combine stunning architecture, fascinating history, and surprisingly gorgeous landscaping. Think of them as parks with really interesting permanent residents and significantly better stories than your average city green space.
Europe’s Crown Jewels of Eternal Rest
Père Lachaise Cemetery, Paris
This Parisian cemetery is basically the celebrity afterlife version of Hollywood Boulevard. With over 3.5 million visitors annually (yes, really), it’s more popular than some living cities. Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf all chose this spot as their final venue, and honestly, they picked well. The winding paths, elaborate tombs, and romantic atmosphere make it clear why this place tops every “world’s most beautiful cemeteries” list.
Highgate Cemetery, London
If Gothic architecture had a poster child, Highgate Cemetery would be it. This north London gem opened in 1839 and quickly became the place where Victorian England’s elite wanted to spend eternity. The sculpted stone angels alone are worth the trip, and the Egyptian Avenue will make you feel like you’ve accidentally wandered into an Indiana Jones movie set.
Old Jewish Cemetery, Prague
Here’s where things get seriously historical. This Prague cemetery has been accepting residents since the 15th century, and space was so limited that graves are stacked up to 12 layers deep. With over 12,000 weathered headstones creating an almost maze-like atmosphere, it’s both haunting and incredibly moving.
South America’s Hidden Gem
La Recoleta Cemetery, Buenos Aires
Argentina’s answer to Père Lachaise, this cemetery is where you’ll find Eva Perón’s final resting place. The mausoleums here are so elaborate they’d make most living people’s homes look modest by comparison. It’s essentially a city within a city, complete with streets, neighborhoods, and architecture that spans centuries.
Asia’s Spiritual Sanctuary
Okunoin Cemetery, Japan
Nestled in a forest on Mount Koya, this Japanese cemetery offers something completely different from its European counterparts. With over 200,000 graves scattered among towering cedar trees, it’s more like a spiritual forest walk than a traditional cemetery visit. The moss-covered stone monuments create an almost mystical atmosphere that’s both peaceful and profound.
North America’s Notable Final Destinations
Arlington National Cemetery, Virginia
While primarily known for its military significance, Arlington National Cemetery is undeniably beautiful in its solemn uniformity. The rows of white headstones create a powerful visual impact, and the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a ceremony that’ll give you chills for all the right reasons.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Los Angeles
Because of course, Hollywood has a cemetery that’s as dramatic as the industry itself. This place hosts movie screenings (yes, really), concerts, and other events among the graves of entertainment legends. It’s the only cemetery where you might catch a film festival and pay respects to your favorite stars in the same afternoon.
Planning Your Respectful Cemetery Adventure
Before you start booking flights based on cemeteries (which, honestly, isn’t the weirdest travel planning criteria I’ve heard), remember that these are still sacred spaces. Most cemeteries welcome visitors, but they expect you to act like you’re in someone’s final neighborhood—because you literally are.
Photography is usually allowed, but flash photography often isn’t. Stick to the paths, keep your voice down, and maybe save the selfie stick for literally anywhere else. These places have survived centuries of history; they don’t need your Instagram drama.
