Planning a trip can be exciting, but choosing the right time to visit your dream destination is crucial. Peak season can turn even the most beautiful spots into crowded, chaotic places. We’ve listed 17 places you might want to avoid during their busiest times to ensure you have the best possible experience.
Venice, Italy
“Venice sees the highest tourist numbers between April and June and September and October,” says CN Traveller. Venice is a city of romance and charm, but visiting during peak season can be overwhelming. The narrow streets and bridges become clogged with tourists, making it hard to appreciate the city’s beauty.
Bali, Indonesia
A tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, Bali, during its busiest time, can mean these idyllic spots become jam-packed with tourists. Traffic can be a nightmare, and popular attractions like the Sacred Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot Temple are swarming with visitors.
Paris, France
Paris, the City of Light, is a bucket-list destination for many. Yet, visiting during peak tourist season means battling long lines at iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame. The charm of wandering Parisian streets is lost when you’re constantly dodging crowds.
Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu, the marvel of ancient engineering, is a must-see for history enthusiasts. However, the influx of tourists during popular seasons can diminish the experience as the narrow paths can feel congested, and the site’s tranquility is disrupted by large tour groups. Visiting during the rainy season might mean dealing with a bit of mud, but the reduced number of visitors makes it worth it.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini’s white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets attract travellers from all over the world, but during the peak time of year, the island’s small towns can feel overcrowded, making it difficult to find a quiet spot to enjoy the view. Beaches are packed, and accommodations are booked well in advance.
Tokyo, Japan
Toky is a bustling metropolis that offers a mix of traditional and modern attractions. However, during peak tourist season, the sheer number of people can make it overwhelming. Popular spots like Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Disneyland, and the cherry blossom spots are particularly crowded.
New York City, USA
New York City is always buzzing, but it can feel like the whole world has descended upon the Big Apple around peak season. Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park become packed with tourists, making it hard to find your way around. Visiting in late autumn or early winter (avoiding Christmas) allows you to experience the city’s energy without the crowds.
Phuket, Thailand
Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Phuket can nonetheless become incredibly crowded during the busiest time of year. Finding a spot to relax can be a challenge. The nightlife scene is also busier, often leading to longer wait times at popular venues.
The Grand Canyon, USA
The Grand Canyon is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, so it’s no surprise that if you go in peak season, the viewpoints and trails can become extremely crowded. This not only takes away from the awe-inspiring experience but can also make hiking and exploring less enjoyable.
Rome, Italy
Rome can be a test of patience during the most popular holiday time of year. Long lines at the Colosseum, Vatican City, and other historical sites can consume much of your day, and the bustling crowds can also make it difficult to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s charming streets.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere draw millions of visitors each year. This, unfortunately, means that, in the middle of the peak holiday season, iconic sites like La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell are overwhelmed with tourists. The city’s beaches and popular neighbourhoods also become very crowded.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a city of luxury and innovation, but popular seasons can make it feel more hectic than opulent. Tourist attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the various theme parks can be incredibly busy, not to mention the high temperatures during summer peak can also be uncomfortable.
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
Famous for its picturesque villages and stunning coastal views, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, during the busiest months, will see the narrow roads become congested with traffic. Popular towns like Positano and Amalfi are also packed with tourists. Finding accommodation can be challenging and expensive, too.
Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a top destination for beach lovers and party-goers, but during peak times, the beaches are filled with sunbathers and packed with nightlife spots. This makes it difficult to find a quiet place to relax or enjoy the vibrant local culture. Visiting during the off-peak months offers a more tranquil experience with better accommodation prices.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a city of history and festivals, but certain months, especially during the Edinburgh Festival in August, can be overwhelming. The streets are crowded, accommodations are fully booked, and prices are at their highest. To enjoy Edinburgh’s rich culture and stunning architecture, visit in the spring or autumn.
Hawaii, USA
Hawaii’s stunning landscapes and unique culture make it a dream destination. However, going during a busy season can make popular spots like Waikiki Beach, the Road to Hana, and Volcanoes National Park very crowded. This can make it hard to find that peaceful, idyllic experience you might be seeking.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
And finally, you might never want to visit Amsterdam during the peak season; its canals, museums, and historic sites attract many visitors, especially during the summer. The city’s narrow streets and popular attractions can become very crowded, making it challenging to enjoy your visit. The latter part of autumn or early spring is the best time to visit.
