9 Tourist Traps Around the World You’ll Want to Avoid
Planning your next vacation? Be wary of tourist traps that promise excitement but deliver disappointment. Many popular attractions charge high fees for underwhelming experiences, wasting your precious time and money.
Skip the overrated spots like Times Square and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Instead, seek out authentic local experiences. For example, rather than fighting crowds at the Empire State Building, head to a rooftop bar for equally stunning NYC views.
Avoid tourist-packed restaurants like Cafe du Monde in New Orleans. You’ll find equally delicious beignets at lesser-known cafes without the long wait. By steering clear of these overhyped attractions, you’ll have more time and budget for meaningful travel experiences that create lasting memories.
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Eiffel Tower (Paris)
The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly iconic, but visiting its top can be a tourist trap. Long queues and expensive tickets often lead to disappointment.
Instead of ascending the tower, consider admiring it from afar. The Trocadéro Plaza offers stunning views without the crowds or cost.
For a unique perspective, head to Montmartre. You’ll get a panoramic view of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, while enjoying the charming neighborhood.
If you’re set on a tower view, try the Montparnasse Tower. It’s less crowded and includes the Eiffel Tower in your cityscape photos.
Want a closer look? Picnic in the Champ de Mars park. You’ll have a perfect view of the tower without the hassle of climbing it.
For a nighttime spectacle, watch the hourly light show from the Seine’s banks. It’s free and just as magical as being up close.
Remember, experiencing Paris isn’t just about one landmark. Explore lesser-known areas to truly appreciate the city’s charm and avoid tourist traps.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa (Italy)
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a famous landmark that draws countless tourists each year. While it’s an iconic sight, visiting can be a crowded and expensive experience.
You’ll likely spend hours waiting in line just to climb the tower and snap a photo pretending to hold it up. The ticket prices are steep for what amounts to a quick photo op.
The tower itself is smaller than many expect. Once you’ve taken your obligatory picture, there’s not much else to do or see.
Pisa has more to offer beyond this tilted tourist trap. Consider exploring the beautiful Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery instead. These stunning buildings showcase impressive architecture without the crowds.
For a unique leaning tower experience, head to the lesser-known Torre delle Milizie in Rome. It tilts even more than Pisa’s tower but sees far fewer visitors.
If you’re set on seeing Pisa, view the tower from the nearby Piazza dei Miracoli. You’ll get great photos without the hassle and expense of climbing it.
Times Square (New York)
Times Square is an iconic NYC destination, but it’s also riddled with tourist traps. Be wary of costumed characters offering photos – they often demand hefty tips afterward. Instead, snap your own selfies with the bright billboards as a backdrop.
Avoid dining at overpriced chain restaurants in the area. Skip places like Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where you’ll pay $25 for a basic burger. Try nearby Hell’s Kitchen for authentic local eateries with better value and quality.
Don’t waste time at the M&M’s World store. It’s just overpriced candy you can buy elsewhere. For a sweet treat, head to Levain Bakery on Amsterdam Avenue for their famous cookies instead.
Steer clear of ticket sellers on the street offering “deals” for shows or attractions. These are often scams or inflated prices. Purchase tickets directly from official sources or use the TKTS booth for discounted Broadway tickets.
Skip the crowded sidewalks by walking on side streets parallel to Broadway. You’ll still see the sights without battling the crowds.
Remember, Times Square is best experienced briefly. Take in the lights and energy, then explore more authentic NYC neighborhoods for a true taste of the city.
Hollywood Walk of Fame (Los Angeles)
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is often touted as a must-see attraction, but it’s best to skip this overcrowded tourist trap. Spanning 15 blocks with over 2,500 stars, it’s more exhausting than exciting.
You’ll find yourself dodging street performers and pushy vendors while navigating throngs of tourists. The area is grimy and can feel seedy, especially at night.
Parking is a nightmare, with some lots charging up to $50 on busy evenings. The experience rarely lives up to expectations, leaving many visitors disappointed.
Instead of wasting time here, head to the Griffith Observatory for free panoramic views of Los Angeles and fascinating stargazing opportunities.
Another great alternative is exploring the La Brea Tar Pits. You’ll discover fascinating film history alongside ancient fossils, offering a unique blend of entertainment and education.
For a taste of Hollywood glamour without the crowds, take a scenic drive through Bel-Air, Holmby Hills, and Beverly Hills. You might catch glimpses of hidden celebrity mansions while enjoying the upscale neighborhoods.
Remember, the real Los Angeles charm lies beyond these tourist hotspots. Venture off the beaten path for a more authentic experience of the city.
Stonehenge (UK)
Stonehenge often disappoints visitors expecting a mystical experience. You’ll likely find yourself stuck in a crowd, squinting at distant stones from behind a rope barrier.
The site can be cold and windy, so pack warm layers and rain gear. Tickets are pricey, and the small visitor center may not justify the cost.
Consider these alternatives for a more engaging prehistoric experience:
- Avebury stone circle: Larger than Stonehenge and free to visit
- West Kennet Long Barrow: Ancient burial chamber you can explore
- Silbury Hill: Mysterious prehistoric mound nearby
If you’re set on seeing Stonehenge, book a special access tour. These allow you to enter the inner circle outside regular hours, providing a more intimate experience.
For a budget-friendly option, view the stones from the nearby public footpath. You’ll miss the visitor center, but get a good glimpse without the crowds or cost.
Remember, the surrounding Salisbury Plain offers numerous other Neolithic sites worth exploring. You might find these less crowded and more interactive than Stonehenge itself.
The Little Mermaid (Copenhagen)
You might be tempted to visit the famous Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, but prepare for disappointment. This bronze figure is surprisingly small and underwhelming in person.
Many tourists find themselves questioning why they made the trip to see it. The statue’s diminutive size often fails to live up to expectations, especially given its status as one of Copenhagen’s top attractions.
Instead of focusing on this overrated landmark, explore Copenhagen’s charming canals or vibrant Nyhavn district. These areas offer a more authentic Danish experience and beautiful photo opportunities.
For a unique cultural experience, consider visiting Freetown Christiania. This self-proclaimed autonomous neighborhood showcases a different side of Copenhagen’s character and history.
If you’re set on seeing iconic sculptures, try the striking modern art at the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art. It’s located just outside the city and offers a far more impressive collection.
Remember, Copenhagen has much more to offer than a small statue. Prioritize attractions that showcase the city’s rich culture, history, and contemporary art scene for a more fulfilling visit.
The Colosseum (Rome)
The Colosseum is an iconic symbol of Rome, but it can be a major tourist trap if you’re not careful. Long lines and overpriced tickets are common issues visitors face.
To avoid wasting time, book your tickets online in advance. This allows you to skip the queue and enter through a dedicated fast-track entrance.
Consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when crowds are smaller. Midday is typically the busiest time.
Don’t fall for costumed “gladiators” offering photo opportunities outside. They often demand high fees for a simple picture.
Instead of paying for an expensive guided tour, try a free audio guide app on your smartphone. Many offer in-depth information about the Colosseum’s history.
For a unique perspective, check out the nearby Palatine Hill. It offers great views of the Colosseum without the crowds.
If you’re on a budget, admiring the Colosseum from the outside is still impressive. The nearby Arch of Constantine is free to view and equally historic.
Remember, the area around the Colosseum is filled with overpriced restaurants. Walk a few blocks away to find more authentic and affordable dining options.
Machu Picchu (Peru)
Machu Picchu is undeniably impressive, but its popularity has turned it into a crowded tourist hotspot. Tickets sell out quickly, so book at least three months in advance.
To avoid the masses, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October). Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Don’t forget your permit. The official Peruvian Ministry of Culture website sells tickets for around $45-60, depending on the trails you choose.
Be prepared for high altitudes. Spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before your visit to prevent altitude sickness.
For a less crowded alternative, check out Choquequirao. This lesser-known Inca site offers stunning ruins without the tourist throngs.
The four-day hike to Choquequirao starts in Cachora, off the Cusco-Abancay road. It’s more challenging but rewards you with solitude and equally impressive Inca architecture.
Another option is exploring the Sacred Valley’s smaller sites like Ollantaytambo or Pisac. These offer fascinating Inca history and culture without Machu Picchu’s overwhelming crowds.
Taj Mahal (India)
The Taj Mahal is undoubtedly a stunning architectural marvel, but its immense popularity can lead to a less-than-ideal experience. Crowds of tourists flock to this iconic site daily, resulting in long queues and limited viewing time.
You’ll likely encounter pushy touts and overpriced souvenirs near the entrance. Many shops claim to sell authentic items, but they’re often mass-produced and overpriced.
The sheer number of visitors can make it challenging to capture that perfect photo or enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection.
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or seasons to avoid the worst crowds. Alternatively, explore other magnificent Mughal structures in Agra, such as Akbar’s Tomb or Fatehpur Sikri.
For a unique perspective, view the Taj Mahal from across the Yamuna River at Mehtab Bagh garden. This spot offers breathtaking sunset views with fewer tourists.
If you’re seeking tranquility, the lesser-known Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah (often called the “Baby Taj”) provides a similar architectural style with a fraction of the visitors.
Remember, while the Taj Mahal is impressive, India offers countless other cultural and historical sites worth exploring. Consider venturing off the beaten path for a more authentic experience.
