25 Tourist Traps Throughout the World Worth Visiting
When it comes to traveling, there are many things you understandably want to see and do on your trip. Trying the best eating spots, visiting historical landmarks, experiencing unique activities, and visiting the famous tourist spots you see all across the web often make the list.
Yes, those tourist spots may be overcrowded and a bit pricey, but you only live once. One of the many things I’ve learned as a travel writer is that even though others may deem those popular spots annoying and overrated, you may regret it if you don’t see them yourself.
Still, there are many tourist traps, but they can be worth visiting and worth the money. Mindfully American searched the internet to determine some top destinations people believe are tourist traps but are worth visiting anyway. I’ve also included a few places I’ve been to as a travel writer that are worth visiting regardless of that negative Nancy telling you not to.
1: Niagra Falls, Canada
Many people visit Niagra Falls and say it’s a unique experience everyone should have despite others calling it a tourist trap. If you plan to visit Niagra Falls, arrange to see New York and Canadian sides for a full-round experience. Please don’t forget to leave those expensive clothes that you wouldn’t want to get wet at home.
2: Stonehenge, England
Sure, Stonehenge may be a bit out of the way from London. But not only are you getting to see a prehistoric landmark; you’re also getting a touch of the countryside.
To access Stonehenge, you must pay an admission fee, but walkers can access a path that will lead them near it if they don’t want to spend a lot of money.
3: The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to visit the Blue Lagoon when I was in Iceland due to the volcanic eruptions. However, I’ve heard nothing but positive things, even though some people online call it a tourist trap.
If the Blue Lagoon was anything like the other lagoon I got to experience, then it’s well worth the money, and I recommend going for a relaxation treat before, during, or after your trip exploring Iceland.
4: Great Wall of China, China
The Great Wall of China is the largest man-made project in the world, stretching over 12,400 miles. It’s not one wall, but multiple walls, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This historical wall provides insight into China’s ancient history. Many people stick to visiting one to a few walls, where crowds are often intense. However, there are many other walls you can explore if you want to avoid larger crowds.
5: The Grand Bazaar, Turkey
The Grand Bazaar is one of Istanbul’s largest and most famous shopping areas. As a result, many tourists visit and complain about vendors trying to sell them goods at high prices.
At 45,000 square feet, the Grand Bazaar is the world’s largest enclosed bazaar. If you want to see this iconic sight, it’s recommended that you visit in the morning. Furthermore, it’s wise to shop around at other stores in Istanbul prior to arriving at the bazaar so that you have a better feel for whether you’re being offered a good deal.
6: The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
Known for its iconic 3.99-degree tilt, the leaning tower of Pisa has become an ongoing joke with many who visit. And there are a lot of tourists who visit.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is the subject of many creative and unique photo ops. Our advice? Join the crowds so you don’t miss your funny photo opportunity.
7: The Colosseum, Italy
The Colosseum is known for its history and violent battles that involved gladiators, animals, and things that one can only guess. You can book a guided tour to see this popular attraction’s upper and lower levels. Just be prepared to shell out a pretty penny and fight with crowds, which is why some people believe it’s a tourist trap.
8: Machu Picchu, Peru
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site to add to your bucket list despite some calling it a tourist trap is Machu Picchu in Peru, located more than 7,000 feet above the Andes Mountains. To visit Machu Picchu, you have the option to take a bus to the top or leave the crowds behind by hiking there.
9: Angkor Wat, Cambodia
The Angkor Wat archaeological site is considered among the most important sites in Southeast Asia. Built in the first half of the 12th century, Angkor Wat spans up to 402 acres. This monument is said to be the largest religious monument in the world.
10: Golden Circle, Iceland
As someone who recently visited Iceland, I can say that the Golden Circle is 100% worth it. The sights are unimaginable, and my phone camera storage is at its max with so many breathtaking pictures.
I recommend anyone experience the Golden Circle. I kept telling myself that I felt like I was inside a Microsoft wallpaper the whole time. It was truly inspiring.
11: Grand Canyon, United States
If the Grand Canyon is on your list of places to visit, be prepared to deal with huge crowds. However, once the peak times settle down, you may get a chance to snap that iconic shot of the canyon that you see everywhere.
12: La Sagrada Familia, Spain
The iconic La Sagrada Familia church is a popular tourist spot in Spain and was deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984. La Sagrada seems to transport those who visit into another dimension, and even though you are inside a church, it doesn’t always feel that way with the artwork displayed.
13: The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza are one of those tourist sites you know will be packed, but they’re so special that you can’t miss the opportunity to see them. Travelers can experience the pyramids up close in person with different guided tours.
14: Petra and Wadi Rum, Jordan
Jordan’s Petra and Wadi Rum are famous for being the stunning backdrops in many popular movies. Films such as the live-action “Aladdin,” “The Mummy Returns” and “Indiana Jones” were shot in Jordan’s Petra, while others such as “Dune,” “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and “Mission to Mars” were shot there.
15: Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Neuschwanstein Castle reminds visitors of something straight out of a cartoon or something they’d see at Disney World. Fun fact: This castle is what Walt based Sleeping Beauty Castle on in Disneyland.
The only way to view the Neuschwanstein Castle closely and personally is by a guided tour. However, for a free experience, you can view the castle from Marienbrücke Bridge, which is a 15-minute walk from the castle and other nearby areas.
16: Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a colorful coastal location comprised of five small villages high on the Italian Rivera. Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore are the five small villages along the famous scenic coastline, dotted with colorful buildings by the water.
The best way to explore these villages is to hike the coastline, take a train, or take a ferry boat.
17: Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, France
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, which often goes by the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, is a Roman Catholic church dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. At the top of the Basilica, you can enjoy panoramic views of France’s capital.
The great thing about the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is that it’s free; the bad thing is that you must climb 300 steps.
18: Alcatraz Island, United States
Growing up, many Americans heard of Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, which housed dangerous criminals. People like Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, and John Kendrick were just a few of the well-known prisoners at Alcatraz.
Alcatraz offers many tours, which can be pricey and crowded but worth it, if you ask us. Travelers can experience a day tour, a behind-the-scenes tour, and, if they’re brave, night tours.
19: Pike Place Market, United States
Pike Place Market in Seattle can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s a place you should visit in Seattle. It was my first time in Seattle, and I had heard many mixed reviews on Pike Place.
I’m glad I went to see it myself, from throwing the fish at the Pike Place Fish Market to the unique booths with all types of trinkets, gifts, and souvenirs to take home.
20: Hobbiton Movie Set, New Zealand
If you’re into the “Lord of the Rings,” “The Hobbit,” or any type of sci-fi mythological movie, the Hobbiton Movie Set in New Zealand may be something for you. There are many experiences such as private tours, breakfast tours, and movie set tours; you can also plan private events.
21: The Duomo, Italy
The Duomo, which began its long construction in the 13th century, is the most crucial landmark in Florence and the fourth-largest church in the world. It is best seen between April and September. If you’re really into architecture and artistry, The Duomo is a great place to visit despite some people labeling it a tourist trap.
22: Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris
Opened in 1345, Notre Dame is highly significant for Paris. This cathedral used to welcome between 10 to 11 million tourists annually, making it among the most visited sites in Europe. However, due to the devastating fire in 2019, Notre Dame is closed and hopes to reopen in December 2024.
For now, visitors can admire it from the outside. And once Notre Dame’s doors re-open, be prepared to fight crowds; it’s estimated that the restored cathedral will receive 15 million visitors annually.
23: Times Square, United States
I visited New York City for the first time in 2023 and was surprised by every street and corner I passed. To catch the Lion King Broadway show, I had to navigate Times Square. I’m pretty sure I upset a lot of people because I was in awe the whole time and running into everyone.
I’m not a big fan of crowds, but taking on Times Square wasn’t bad. It was an experience and a place I can say that I visited, and I had the best slice of pizza in my life.
24: Taj Mahal, India
The Taj Mahal is truly breathtaking and a sight to see. The crowds may be a lot, but you can’t beat experiencing this jewel in person. The Taj Mahal is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s worth a visit if you’re trying to check off UNESCO sites on your bucket list.
25: Walt Disney World, Orlando
Walt Disney World is the world of the mouse and truly the happiest place on earth, as someone who lives in Orlando and has gone to Disney World with family. There is so much to do for both adults and kids, and it’s a great way to bring out the kid in yourself and not have to worry about anything while you’re there except if you want a turkey leg from Magic Kingdom or a sweet treat from Gideon’s Bakery.
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