What is the oldest city in the world?

It sounds like a simple trivia question, but it opens the door to something much more fascinating: places where daily life has continued for thousands of years. These are not abandoned ruins or museum sites. They are ancient cities where people still live, work, shop, and gather, surrounded by streets older than most civilizations. The cities below are often considered among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, meaning human settlement has remained active there for millennia. And the best part is that you can still visit them today.

What Is the Oldest City in the World?

Jericho is frequently cited as the oldest city in the world, with evidence of settlement dating back as far as 9000 BCE. That said, historians and archaeologists debate these rankings because new discoveries constantly reshape timelines. Rather than focusing on one definitive answer, it is more accurate to explore a group of cities that have remained continuously inhabited across thousands of years.

What Makes a City One of the Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities?

A city earns the label “oldest continuously inhabited” when there is strong archaeological and historical evidence that people have lived there without major interruption. That distinction matters. Many ancient settlements were abandoned due to war, climate shifts, or migration. The cities in this list survived those changes, evolving through empires, religions, and cultures while staying alive as real urban spaces.

1. Jericho - Often Considered the Oldest City in the World

Jericho, located in the West Bank, is one of the strongest contenders for the title of oldest city in the world. Archaeological layers suggest humans lived here more than 11,000 years ago, making it one of the earliest known urban settlements. Today, Jericho is still inhabited, and visitors can explore Tell es-Sultan, a UNESCO-recognized site filled with remnants of ancient walls and early civilization. Standing there feels less like visiting a ruin and more like stepping into the origins of city life itself.

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2. Byblos – One of the Oldest Cities in the World

Byblos, on Lebanon’s Mediterranean coast, dates back to around 5000 BCE and is often listed among the oldest cities in the world. It played a major role in Phoenician trade and is closely tied to the development of early alphabets. What makes Byblos special today is the blend of history and atmosphere: ancient temples and Crusader castles sit beside cafés, fishing boats, and modern seaside life. It is one of those rare places where you can explore ruins in the morning and enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor in the afternoon.

3. Damascus, Syria – Among the Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities

Damascus is widely regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history stretching back several thousand years. Its Old City contains layers of Roman streets, Islamic architecture, and ancient marketplaces. The Umayyad Mosque, in particular, remains one of the most significant historical landmarks in the region.

While travel conditions vary depending on current safety, Damascus remains one of the most culturally important ancient capitals still active today.

4. Varanasi – One of the Oldest Cities in Asia

Varanasi, located along the Ganges River in India, is considered one of the oldest cities in Asia and one of the world’s longest continuously inhabited spiritual centers. Life here revolves around the river. Pilgrims gather at sunrise, rituals take place along the ghats, and narrow alleyways reveal temples, markets, and centuries of tradition.

Varanasi is not just historically old, it feels alive in a way few cities do, where daily routines have echoed across thousands of years. Traveling through India often means relying on maps, ride apps, and translation tools, and an Asia-Pacific eSIM from Eskimo can help keep things smooth from arrival.

5. Athens – The Oldest City in Europe Still Active Today

Athens is often recognized as the oldest city in Europe with continuous habitation spanning more than 3,000 years. The Acropolis may be its most famous landmark, but Athens is more than its ancient monuments. Modern neighborhoods, buzzing cafés, and creative energy surround these classical sites, making it one of the most dynamic historical cities in Europe. It is also one of the easiest ancient cities to visit, with strong infrastructure, walkability, and rich museums that connect the past with modern Greek identity.

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6. Plovdiv – One of the Oldest Cities in Europe

Plovdiv, Bulgaria, is often overlooked compared to Athens or Rome, but it is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with settlement dating back over 6,000 years. Its Roman amphitheater still hosts concerts today, which is part of what makes Plovdiv remarkable: history here is not frozen, it is integrated into daily life. The Old Town is full of colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and cultural festivals, making it one of Europe’s most charming ancient cities to explore.

7. Luoyang – Ancient Cities of China

Luoyang is among the oldest cities in China and served as a capital for multiple dynasties. Its historical significance comes from both politics and religion. The nearby Longmen Grottoes contain thousands of carved Buddhist statues, reflecting centuries of artistry and devotion. Luoyang offers a different perspective on ancient cities, showing how Chinese civilization developed through dynasties rather than a single empire.

8. Faiyum – One of the Oldest Cities in Africa

Faiyum, in Egypt, dates back to around 4000 BCE and remains one of the oldest cities in Africa still inhabited today. It is closely tied to ancient agriculture and oasis life, and it offers a quieter alternative to Egypt’s more famous tourist centers. Nearby archaeological sites connect visitors to early Egyptian civilization beyond the pyramids. Faiyum reminds travelers that Africa’s ancient urban history stretches far deeper than many people realize.

Stay Connected While Exploring the World’s Oldest Cities

These cities are not just historical facts. They represent the endurance of human life across thousands of years. Markets, homes, places of worship, and public spaces have adapted through empires and eras, yet the cities remain. Visiting one of the oldest cities in the world is a reminder that history is not only something behind glass. In many places, it is still part of everyday life.

Ancient streets can be beautiful, but they can also be maze-like, especially in historic districts where navigation apps and mobile access make travel much easier. With Eskimo’s regional eSIM plans, you can stay connected across destinations, whether you are walking through Athens, exploring India, or planning a multi-country trip through Europe. Claim your free eSIM here.

FAQ

What is the oldest city in the world?

Jericho is often considered the oldest city in the world, with settlement dating back to around 9000 BCE.

What is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world?

Cities such as Damascus and Jericho are frequently cited among the oldest continuously inhabited cities.

What is the oldest city in Europe?

Athens and Plovdiv are often listed among the oldest cities in Europe still inhabited today.

Can you still visit these ancient cities today?

Yes. Many of the world’s oldest cities remain active destinations with modern infrastructure alongside ancient landmarks.