10 Tourist Traps That Aren’t Worth Your Money—And Where to Go Instead
Not all famous attractions live up to the hype. While some tourist spots are bucket-list worthy, others are overpriced, overcrowded, and underwhelming. Instead of wasting your time and money on disappointing tourist traps, why not explore better, less crowded alternatives that offer a more authentic and rewarding experience?
1. The Hollywood Walk of Fame (Los Angeles, USA) → Visit Griffith Observatory Instead
Millions of tourists flock to Hollywood Boulevard expecting glitz and glamour, but the Walk of Fame is crowded, underwhelming, and filled with aggressive street vendors. The area is often dirty, and aside from taking a quick photo with a celebrity’s name on the sidewalk, there’s not much to see.
Where to go instead: If you want breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the iconic Hollywood Sign, head to Griffith Observatory. This scenic spot offers stunning panoramic views, hiking trails, and free access to exhibits and telescopes for an unforgettable experience.
2. Times Square (New York City, USA) → Explore the West Village Instead
Times Square is bright, loud, and chaotic—and while it may be worth seeing once, it’s also packed with tourists, overpriced restaurants, and aggressive street performers. If you’re looking for the real NYC experience, you won’t find it here.
Where to go instead: Escape the crowds and head to the West Village, where you’ll find charming streets, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. Stroll along Bleecker Street, visit Washington Square Park, or grab a slice at Joe’s Pizza for a true taste of New York.
3. The Leaning Tower of Pisa (Pisa, Italy) → Visit Lucca Instead
Yes, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is an architectural marvel, but it’s also a tourist-packed photo op with little else to do in the area. Plus, climbing the tower is pricey and underwhelming.
Where to go instead: Skip Pisa and visit Lucca, a stunning Tuscan town with beautifully preserved medieval walls, charming piazzas, and incredible food. Rent a bike and cycle along the ancient city walls for an unforgettable Italian experience—without the crowds.
4. Santorini’s Overcrowded Sunset Spots (Greece) → Head to Naxos or Milos Instead
Santorini’s sunsets are world-famous, but they also attract massive crowds that make it nearly impossible to enjoy. Restaurants and hotels are overpriced, and finding a quiet spot for a romantic moment is a challenge.
Where to go instead: Visit Naxos or Milos, two stunning Greek islands that offer gorgeous sunsets, pristine beaches, and authentic Greek charm—without the overwhelming crowds. You’ll still get the whitewashed buildings and blue domes, but with a much more relaxed atmosphere.
5. The Mona Lisa at the Louvre (Paris, France) → Explore Musée d’Orsay Instead
Seeing the Mona Lisa in person might be on your bucket list, but be prepared for huge crowds, a tiny painting, and a glass barrier that keeps you far from the artwork. Most visitors spend more time fighting for a photo than actually admiring the art.
Where to go instead: Head to the Musée d’Orsay, a breathtaking museum housed in a former train station. It features incredible Impressionist masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir—without the suffocating crowds.
6. The Little Mermaid Statue (Copenhagen, Denmark) → Visit Nyhavn Instead
The Little Mermaid statue is one of Copenhagen’s most famous attractions, but many visitors are shocked by how small and underwhelming it is. The statue is often crowded with tourists and hard to photograph, making it a disappointing stop.
Where to go instead: Stroll through Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s colorful waterfront district. Lined with historic buildings, lively cafes, and scenic canal views, it’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s charm while enjoying delicious Danish pastries and fresh seafood.
7. Fisherman’s Wharf (San Francisco, USA) → Explore the Mission District Instead
Fisherman’s Wharf is one of San Francisco’s most touristy areas, filled with overpriced seafood, generic souvenir shops, and massive crowds. While the sea lions at Pier 39 are fun to see, the rest of the area feels inauthentic and overpriced.
Where to go instead: Head to the Mission District, where you can explore incredible street art, trendy cafes, and some of the best Mexican food in the U.S. Visit Dolores Park for a perfect view of the city skyline, and grab a legendary Mission-style burrito from La Taqueria.
8. Blarney Stone (Ireland) → Discover the Cliffs of Moher Instead
Kissing the Blarney Stone is supposed to give you the gift of eloquence, but you’ll have to wait in a long line, climb steep steps, and awkwardly lean backward over a ledge to do it. The experience is often rushed, and the crowds make it feel less magical.
Where to go instead: Visit the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Towering 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, these cliffs offer spectacular views and an unforgettable Irish landscape—no gimmicks required.
9. Manneken Pis (Brussels, Belgium) → Explore Grand Place Instead
The Manneken Pis, a tiny statue of a boy peeing into a fountain, is one of Brussels’ most famous attractions—but most visitors are shocked by how small and unimpressive it is. It’s often surrounded by crowds of confused tourists wondering why they came.
Where to go instead: Spend time at Grand Place, Brussels’ stunning central square. Surrounded by ornate 17th-century buildings, historic guildhalls, and lively cafes, it’s one of the most beautiful plazas in Europe. Don’t forget to try authentic Belgian waffles and chocolate while you’re there.
10. The Spanish Steps (Rome, Italy) → Visit Trastevere Instead
The Spanish Steps in Rome are famous, but they’re also overcrowded, heavily policed, and not particularly exciting. Sitting on the steps is now banned, and most visitors leave feeling underwhelmed by the experience.
Where to go instead: Head to Trastevere, Rome’s most charming neighborhood. With cobblestone streets, lively piazzas, and authentic Italian trattorias, Trastevere feels like stepping into a movie. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an Aperol Spritz and soak in the magic of Rome—without the tourist crowds.
