WTTC Launches Global Search for the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has launched the global search for the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World, inviting people around the world to nominate the modern landmarks that have had the greatest impact on tourism, local communities and economic growth since 1801.

The year-long initiative aims to establish a new international benchmark for contemporary landmarks by recognising destinations that have reshaped the modern travel landscape through architectural excellence, cultural significance and long-term economic impact.

Public invited to help select the world's modern wonders

For the first time, travellers and the wider public will have the opportunity to nominate and help choose the landmarks that best represent the modern era of tourism. Beyond their architectural and cultural value, the selected sites will be recognised for their contribution to destination development, investment, employment and community prosperity.

Examples of contemporary landmarks highlighted by WTTC include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. According to the organisation, these projects have not only become major visitor attractions but have also transformed the international profile and economic prospects of their destinations.

Tourism assets as drivers of economic growth

With many governments seeking new opportunities for sustainable economic development, WTTC says the initiative is intended to demonstrate the strategic value of tourism infrastructure and cultural investment.

The campaign also highlights the role of public-private collaboration in creating landmark attractions that generate long-term economic and social benefits while enhancing the visitor experience.

Alongside globally recognised icons, the programme will also consider emerging landmarks that have made a significant contribution to their local communities and have the potential to shape the next generation of tourism destinations. The evaluation will include tourism performance, economic contribution, community value, destination development, as well as architectural and cultural significance.

One-year global campaign

The selection process will take place over four stages. Nominations open worldwide on 7 July 2026, followed by the announcement of 70 nominated sites and the start of public voting on 7 January 2027. The shortlist will be reduced to 30 finalists on 7 April 2027, before the 7 Contemporary Wonders of the World are officially unveiled on 7 July 2027.

"Wonder is not something humanity stopped creating centuries ago. Every generation leaves its mark on the world. We are inviting people everywhere to help recognise the landmarks that have defined the modern age and will continue to inspire new ways of experiencing the world.

The most influential tourism assets do far more than attract visitors. They create jobs, stimulate investment, support local businesses, strengthen communities and enhance the global profile of destinations. We want to showcase how visionary investments in tourism infrastructure and cultural assets can deliver lasting economic and social value for generations," said Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC.

Through the campaign, WTTC aims to demonstrate how Travel & Tourism can stimulate investment, create employment, strengthen regional economies and inspire future generations of destination development around the world.

The public nomination phase is now open, with submissions accepted here. 

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