10 Tourist Traps That Aren’t Worth Your Time

Whatever your motivation for visiting well-known attractions, you’d be wise to recognize that you’re far from alone in your desire to see these places. In fact, if there is one cliché but true fact, it is that taking the road less traveled (literally) can often be more rewarding than visiting global tourist traps such as Times Square or the Taj Mahal.

For one, you’ll be able to have a more authentic cultural experience, rather than having to contend with hordes of international travelers, and all of the marketing techniques and scams that often come with popular destinations. So, if you’re feeling more adventurous (and don’t exactly enjoy sharing your space with thousands of other people at once), take our advice, and avoid these worst tourist traps in the world.

Niagara Falls, New York

Every year, tens of thousands of Americans come to Niagara Falls to marvel at Mother Nature’s splendor. However, the surrounding town has become so tourist-centered that you’ll pay exorbitant prices and overcrowded streets just to see these falls. Fortunately, its Ontario counterpart, Niagara-on-the-Lake, offers the same breathtaking views of the falls with fewer tourists. In other words, a more authentic Niagara Falls experience is only a short drive away.

Times Square, New York

There are so many other ways to spend your time in the Big Apple that don’t involve costumed swindlers and overpriced chain restaurants. Instead, head downtown, below 14th street, for a true taste of New York City. (Greenwich Village is an excellent choice.) While there will still be crowds (it is New York, after all), you will find more authentic eateries and park strolls than you could ever imagine.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

To visit the Pyramids of Giza in Cairo, you must be prepared to empty your bank account. Taxis will offer to drive you to hidden parts of this tourist trap before you even enter it—but be warned: this secret entry will cost you more than you can imagine (often hundreds of dollars).

Furthermore, tour guides frequently target international tourists and trick them into believing that they must purchase a guided tour, which is not the case. We recommend spending more time at Luxor’s ancient temples and the Valley of Kings’ tombs.

Taj Mahal, India

According to CNN, visiting the Taj Mahal is only worthwhile if you enjoy competing with thousands of other tourists for the best Instagram photo of its magnificent architecture. In fact, this location is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with approximately eight million visitors flocking to its exterior each year. If you still want to see this historic site, plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Old Town, Prague, Czech Republic

Every year, approximately three million visitors flood the streets of Old Town, requiring considerable elbowing and jostling to get the best experience. Many seasoned travelers believe it isn’t worth the trip because there are so many other beautiful and distinct historical monuments outside of Old Town. Vinohrady, Vršovice, Žižkov, and Holesovice, to name a few, are testaments to Prague’s architectural wonders, without the throngs of tourists and overpriced attractions.

Walt Disney World; Orlando, Florida

Walt Disney World is easily Florida’s most popular attraction, welcoming 20 million visitors each year (that’s 56,000 every day—the population of some small cities). But it’s not quite as magical when you’re surrounded by screaming kids and cheesy Mickey products. Instead of spending a fortune to impress your family, visit family-friendly theme parks like Hersheypark and Dollywood, where the crowds are less intimidating and the prices are more reasonable.

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

Even if it’s incredible to spend a few minutes in an architectural anomaly like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, you’ll have to pay more than your fair share of money ($22 per person) and precious time to even step foot inside the historical building. If you don’t want to stand in line to see a leaning tower (or be pushed out of the way by photobombing tourists), head to San Gimignano’s medieval towers in nearby Tuscany.

Stonehenge, England

Because you are not permitted to walk anywhere near the stones, many people believe that simply driving by the famous rock formation is a better investment than paying to see Stonehenge from afar. Not only that, but Stonehenge is located in a more remote part of England, requiring a two-and-a-half-hour drive from London, implying that you’re spending far more than the admission price ($25 per person) to see (and not even touch) this rock formation.

Benoa, Indonesia

Though its shores are thought to have some of the best snorkeling waters in Indonesia, most people regard this location as a tourist trap. For one thing, the waters aren’t as clean as they appear—you’ll fare better in places like Pulau Menjangan, where the beaches are better maintained. Furthermore, as a general rule when traveling abroad, avoid scammers; if the deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is a never-ending tourist trap. You’ll spend more time avoiding unpleasant diversions than actually enjoying this beautiful beach town, thanks to sales representatives pressuring you to attend presentations about purchasing timeshares in Mexico and young spring breakers looking to down one too many margaritas (the drinking age in Mexico is 18). Bacalar, Yucatan, is a quieter alternative for crystal-clear waters and hidden cenotes.

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