These five iconic theaters are the most visually stunning performance venues in the world. If you find yourself in one of these cities, be sure to catch a show or just tour the unforgettable spaces that are rich in history and local culture.

The Seebühne, Lake Constance, Austria

You may have seen this theater featured in the 2008 James Bond film Quantum of Solace. No, it was not just a prop for the movie, but a fully functioning, historic floating stage that sits on the shores of Lake Constance and has 7,000 seats. If you’re in the neighborhood, you can enjoy a large-scale opera or musical performance during the Bregenz Festival. 

Photo via instagram.com/bregenzerfestspiele

RELATED: Museums Around The World With Must-See Black Art Collections

The Winter Garden, Toronto, Canada

Built in 1913, the Winter Garden, above the Elgin Theatre in Toronto, is the world’s last operating double-decker theater. The venue hosts a variety of performing arts and film programming by leading entertainment practitioners. If you aren’t able to catch a show, the historic site offers 90-minute tours offering a deeper look into the history and remarkable architecture of the venue. 

Photo via heritagetrust.on.ca

Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens, Greece

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a stone theater structure that was completed in 174AD. Situated on the southern slopes of the Acropolis, the venue has housed the Athens Festival, music, dance, and theatre acts. Visiting this truly remarkable piece of history is an unforgettable experience. 

Photo by Wikimedia user Nikthestunned

Palacio de Bellas Artes, Mexico City, Mexico

The Palacio de Bellas Artes is considered the most important cultural center in Mexico due to its history of hosting numerous exhibitions and theatrical performances. Completed in 1934, the building has witnessed thousands of shows over the years and hosted the most relevant Mexican artists of the time.

Photo via palacio.inba.gob.mx

RELATED: Best Places To Stay In Mexico City, Mexico

Palau de la Música Catalana, Barcelona, Spain

This theater is often mentioned as one of the top 10 things to see while visiting Barcelona. Designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner in 1908, The Concert Auditorium is one of the most distinctive in the world. You can enjoy a show in one of the many stages or choose from a variety of guided tours. 

Photo via palaumusica.cat/ca