10 Tourist Destinations People Say You Have To Go To That Are Actually Terrible
Traveling is about the experience – the smell of a new city, the echo of an ancient monument, and the inexplicable feeling of walking where countless others have trodden. However, not all travel destinations live up to the postcards we’ve seen, often because hidden behind the Instagram-perfect shots are the not-so-pretty realities that infrequently make the highlight reel.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles, USA
Hollywood’s star-lined sidewalk is synonymous with celebrities and the glamor of L.A.’s entertainment industry. However, the stars are often dirty, and the area can feel unsafe, not to mention the hordes of street performers crowding the sidewalks. The Walk of Fame sees around 10 million visitors yearly, while it’s reported that the cost of the stars on it has risen to around $40,000.
Head to Griffith Observatory for a touch of celestial magic, a view of the city, and real stars you wouldn’t usually find on the Walk of Fame. If you’re an architecture buff, take a moment to appreciate the Art Deco buildings of Hollywood that are overshadowed by the crowd. And if you must, visit early in the day, usually before 9 am – the crowds are thinner, and the light is perfect. Take a Metro Rail or bus – parking is a nightmare.
The Golden Gate Bridge – San Francisco, United States
It’s a bridge—big and red. What’s next? While the Golden Gate Bridge is undeniably beautiful and an engineering marvel, the sheer volume of traffic—both vehicular and pedestrian—particularly in the spring and fall can detract from the experience. The coastal fog, while adding to the mystique, also shrouds the bridge from view. The cost of parking and transportation is steep, and amenities for pedestrians are minimal.
The Golden Gate Bridge attracts around 15-20 million visitors annually, contributing to San Francisco’s status as one of the most expensive U.S. cities for tourists. Instead, opt for a visit to Golden Gate Park, San Francisco’s urban oasis. Or, for a unique perspective on the bridge, rent a kayak and paddle beneath its towering arches.
The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower is identified with romance and Parisian grandeur. Still, the reality of long lines, expensive tickets, and often underwhelming views can be less than enchanting. One of the most visited landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower receives nearly 7 million visitors yearly at a cost ranging from €10-€25 per person.
Instead of queuing to ascend the tower, consider a picnic in Champ de Mars Park, where you can admire the monument for free. Enjoy a panoramic city view from the less crowded rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette department store, and experience local Parisian life at the Canal Saint-Martin.
Phuket, Thailand
Phuket is famous for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife, but these very attractions have led to over-tourism and a loss of cultural authenticity. The island is often crowded, and the many resorts have led to environmental degradation. Phuket saw over 10 million visitors in 2019, pre-pandemic, with the average cost per day for a tourist being around 3,500 baht ($111).
Consider visiting Koh Yao Noi and Koh Yao Yai, two island gems with a much more laid-back atmosphere and less touristy feel. They’re just a short boat ride away.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt
The Pyramids attract over 10 million visitors annually, with entry fees for foreigners ranging from $9 to $18 per site. Horse and camel rides around the complex often have inflated prices and aggressive bargaining. Guides may offer skewed historical narratives for an extra fee, detracting from the awe-inspiring history best experienced with a bit of solitude.
Rather than focusing solely on the Pyramids, consider visiting the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, which offers an awe-inspiring collection of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. Explore the lesser-known sites, such as the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara and the ancient capital of Memphis, which sees fractions of Giza’s foot traffic.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
The Leaning Tower of Pisa sees a staggering 5 million annual visitors. The over 800-year-old tower is a feat of architectural wonder, and it’s… leaning. While the tower is fascinating, the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli is often jam-packed with tourists taking the same forced perspective photo of “holding up” the structure. Its touristy shops and overpriced cafes make it feel like a tourist trap. Critics warn of the aggressive “green space guardians” who patrol for unruly tourists.
Approximately 5 million visitors flock to Pisa annually, with adult admission to the Leaning Tower costing €18 to climb. A short drive inland will take you to Lucca, which has intact Renaissance city walls and towers that are much less crowded and equally charming. Avoid the tourist menus and eat like a local along Borgo Stretto or Piazza delle Vettovaglie. For an in-depth experience, don’t just stop at the tower – visit the nearby Piazza dei Miracoli with the cathedral and baptistery.
The Forbidden City, Beijing, China
For good reason, the former Chinese imperial palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Still, the massive crowds and the fact that only a fraction of the city is accessible to the public can be disappointing. The Forbidden City sees around 16 million visitors annually, with entrance fees at a flat rate of 60 RMB ($9) per person during peak seasons. Preservation efforts sometimes prioritize aesthetics over authenticity, and facilities can be inadequate.
Consider a trip to the Summer Palace, a short distance away, where you can escape the bustle of the city and visit another beautiful imperial garden. Visit Jingshan Park for a panoramic view of the Forbidden City, especially at sunset.
The Great Wall of China
The Great Wall is one of the world’s wonders, yet some portions, like Badaling, have been over-visited and, as a result, over-restored. Crowds can make it hard to enjoy a peaceful hike along its battlements. Portions like Badaling are notorious for being overcrowded and heavily restored. The fragile structure is sometimes treated like an amusement park, which does a disservice to the wall’s historical and cultural significance.
An estimated 10 million people visit the Great Wall annually, and prices for most sections range from 40-70 RMB ($6-$11). For a better time, consider exploring Jinshanling or Simatai, where the trek is wilder and the crowds are much thinner. Remember, the Great Wall stretches over 13,000 miles—plenty of beautiful, less-discovered sections to visit!
Venice, Italy
Venice is undeniably beautiful, but its popularity has led to skyrocketing prices, crowded streets, and a sinking city struggling to accommodate the masses. The endless flotilla of cruise ships has led to concerns about water quality and the erosion of the city’s foundations. St. Mark’s Square is often flooded with both water and people. The experience of being herded through the city like cattle is a reality for many tourists. As the Italian National Statistics Institute reported, Venice received over 13 million visitors in 2019, leading to high living costs and overtourism-related issues.
Venture out into the labyrinthine streets of the Castello or Cannaregio districts, far from the maddening crowd. Visit from November to March (the low season) and patronize local artisans and Murano glassmakers for a genuine consolatory purchase. If you must experience a Venetian canal ride, avoid the gondolas, which charge exorbitant fees. The city’s vaporetto water buses offer a more affordable—and arguably more authentic—alternative.
Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal/Tibet
The climb to Everest Base Camp has become a popular tourist activity, leading to overcrowding and garbage buildup on the mountain. Altitude sickness and severe weather can also be dangerous for inexperienced climbers, resulting in over 320 recorded deaths. 2023 was the deadliest year on record, with Yuba Raj Khatiwada, the director of Nepal’s tourism department, citing changes in the weather as the primary cause.
Consider routes in the Annapurna or Langtang regions for an equally breathtaking experience. Consider trekking alternative base camps, like those for Makalu or Kangchenjunga, for a different, no-less-dramatic alpine experience. Engage with the local communities of the Khumbu region for a more well-rounded cultural experience.
20 Most Overrated American Tourist Traps to Avoid
Traveling can be an exhilarating adventure, offering a chance to immerse oneself in new cultures, landscapes, and experiences. Over the years, specific iconic American destinations have become synonymous with tourism.
20 Most Overrated American Tourist Traps to Avoid
13 Common Scams Tourists Fall For In Europe
Travelers can encounter various scams across European cities, targeting those unfamiliar with local customs or language. Being aware of these common scams can help tourists protect themselves. Here’s a list of scams often reported:
13 Common Scams Tourists Fall For In Europe
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
Welcome, fellow wanderers! If you’ve found yourself here, it’s’ likely because you’re on a noble quest for the worst of the worst—the crème de la crème of the most underwhelming and downright disappointing tourist traps America offers. Maybe you’re looking to avoid common pitfalls, or you’re just a connoisseur of the hilariously bad.
20 of the Worst American Tourist Attractions, Ranked in Order
16 Most Fun Roadside Attractions Throughout the U.S.
Travel encompasses more than just reaching a destination; it’s about the entire experience. Embark on a road trip through America to revel in the spirit of exploration. Discover not only its breathtaking natural beauty but also the diverse, eccentric, and occasionally bizarre roadside attractions that epitomize this country’s uniqueness.
