When planning a holiday, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of seeing famous landmarks, but some of these spots can turn out to be overpriced tourist traps. To help you make the most of your travels, here’s a list of 17 places you might want to steer clear of as a tourist.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Tower of Pisa is one of the most photographed spots in Italy thanks to its famous lean—which, according to Britannica, is caused by the “settling of its foundations” originally—but it’s also a prime example of a tourist trap. The area is swamped with crowds trying to get that perfect photo, and local vendors aggressively push overpriced souvenirs.
Times Square, New York
It might look dazzling on screen, but in reality, Times Square is a chaotic and overcrowded hub full of expensive restaurants and pushy street performers—and the bright lights and giant billboards can be overwhelming. If you’re in New York, spend your time exploring the diverse neighbourhoods like Greenwich Village or Brooklyn, instead.
The London Eye
The London Eye promises stunning views of the city, but the hefty ticket price and long queues often make it more hassle than it’s worth. Also, once you’re on it, the ride is fairly short. For a better experience, head to the Sky Garden, where you can enjoy panoramic views of London for free.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame
While it’s undoubtedly a huge draw for tourists, many find the Hollywood Walk of Fame underwhelming. The area is filled with tacky souvenir shops, costumed characters demanding tips, and a general sense of seediness. For a more authentic Hollywood experience, hike up to the Griffith Observatory for breathtaking views of the city.
The Great Wall at Badaling
The Badaling section of the Great Wall of China is the most popular with tourists, and as a result, it’s often overcrowded and commercialised. The experience can feel more like a theme park than a historical site. Opt to visit the less crowded sections like Mutianyu or Jinshanling for a more authentic experience.
The Little Mermaid Statue, Copenhagen
An iconic symbol of Copenhagen, the Little Mermaid statue disappoints many visitors. Its small size and the crowds that surround it make it unattractive. The statue itself is often vandalised, adding to the let-down. Instead, explore the vibrant Nyhavn district or the beautiful Tivoli Gardens.
Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco
Fisherman’s Wharf is often promoted as a must-see in San Francisco, but it’s essentially a tourist trap with overpriced food, tacky souvenir shops, and overwhelming crowds. Visit the Ferry Building Marketplace instead for great food and local products to enjoy.
Santorini’s Oia Village
Famous for its stunning sunsets and white-washed buildings, Santorini’s Oia Village is unfortunately also notoriously crowded, especially during peak tourist season, meaning the narrow streets can become unbearably packed. And prices are inflated, too. For a more laid-back vibe, consider exploring the less crowded areas of Santorini, like Pyrgos or Emporio.
The Pyramids of Giza
While the Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly a marvel, the experience is often marred by aggressive touts and an overwhelming number of tourists. The area around the pyramids can feel more like a circus than a historical site. For a more peaceful experience, visit the lesser-known pyramids where you can explore ancient wonders in a quieter setting.
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
It’s often promoted as a must-visit in Iceland, but the Blue Lagoon is heavily commercialised and can be jam-packed with other visitors. The high prices and mandatory reservations can make the experience feel less relaxing, too, so you might want to try one of Iceland’s many natural hot springs, like the Secret Lagoon.
Bourbon Street, New Orleans
Bourbon Street in New Orleans is famous for its lively atmosphere and party scene, but it can be overwhelming with its noise, crowds—and sometimes unsavoury characters. For a more enjoyable experience, explore the city’s vibrant music scene in the Frenchmen Street area.
The Taj Mahal at Sunrise
While it’s a breathtaking sight, the Taj Mahal at sunrise is now an extremely busy time, when it used to be that this time of day was a tip to avoid the crowds. The early morning rush can detract from the experience, whereas visiting later in the day can often provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
Juliet’s Balcony, Verona
Juliet’s Balcony in Verona is a popular spot due to its association with Shakespeare’s famous play, of course, but for that reason, it’s commonly overflowing with non-locals. What many people also don’t realise is that the balcony itself is a modern addition with little historical significance, so you’re better off just exploring the beautiful streets of Verona.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
While undoubtedly spectacular, Niagara Falls on the Canadian side is heavily commercialised with casinos, chain restaurants, and tourist traps, resulting in the area feeling more like a mini Las Vegas than a natural wonder. For a more serene experience, visit the falls from the American side or take a boat tour to get up close.
Machu Picchu, Peru
The world-famous site of Machu Picchu sees heavy tourist traffic, which can detract from the experience, and the strict visitation rules (and the need to book well in advance) can be stressful. The Sacred Valley, which offers stunning ruins, beautiful landscapes, and a chance to experience the region’s history and culture, offers an alternative without the crowds.
Phuket’s Patong Beach
Patong Beach in Phuket is known for its vibrant nightlife, but it’s also crowded, noisy, and filled with aggressive vendors—not to mention the beach itself can be dirty and uninviting. For a more relaxing beach experience, head to the quieter Kata or Karon beaches, where you can enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere.
The Spanish Steps, Rome
One final tourist trap you should avoid is the Spanish Steps in Rome. Although they’re an iconic spot, they’re regularly far too busy and can be a magnet for pickpockets. The area around the steps is also filled with expensive cafes and shops.
