10 Tourist Traps to Skip and 10 Hidden Gems to Visit Instead

When it comes to travel, some destinations get all the attention, but they aren’t always the best choice for a truly enriching experience. Tourist traps are often crowded, overpriced, and lacking the authentic local charm that makes travel so special. For those seeking something different, here are 10 popular tourist spots to avoid, along with their lesser-known counterparts that offer more authenticity, beauty, and tranquility.

Skip: Times Square, New York City

Times Square is an iconic part of New York City, but its crowds, high prices, and overwhelming billboards can be more exhausting than exciting. While it’s certainly a must-see for first-timers, the experience is often far from what you’d expect in a city full of history and culture. Instead of spending your time here, venture to DUMBO in Brooklyn. This vibrant neighborhood offers incredible views of Manhattan, charming cobblestone streets, and unique art galleries. Plus, you can visit the Brooklyn Bridge Park for a quieter and more scenic spot to take in the city’s skyline.

Skip: The Colosseum, Rome

The Colosseum is one of the most famous structures in the world, but the entrance fees, long lines, and crowds often detract from the experience. It’s also not the most intimate way to connect with Roman history. Instead, consider visiting the Appian Way (Via Appia), one of the oldest roads in the Roman Empire. Strolling along this ancient path will transport you to quieter ruins, tombs, and villas that hold stories just as fascinating as the Colosseum—without the masses.

Skip: The Great Wall of China (Badaling Section)

While the Great Wall is a must-see, the Badaling section is one of the most heavily trafficked areas, meaning it can feel more like an amusement park than a historic wonder. To avoid the crowds, head to the Mutianyu section, a less crowded part of the wall offering stunning views and a more peaceful experience. Here, you can walk along a beautifully preserved stretch of the wall while enjoying the serenity of the surrounding mountains.

Skip: Venice’s Rialto Bridge

Venice is a dream destination, but the Rialto Bridge often gets so crowded that it’s hard to enjoy the view. You’ll have to elbow your way through throngs of tourists to capture that perfect shot. Instead, explore Dorsoduro, a quieter, less touristy district of Venice. With its stunning canals, beautiful art galleries like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and scenic spots like the Zattere promenade, Dorsoduro offers a more authentic Venetian experience.

Skip: Mount Fuji’s 5th Station

While Mount Fuji is a natural wonder, the 5th Station is packed with tourists who climb part of the way and then turn back, leaving the area overrun. For a more peaceful and rewarding experience, head to Hakone, a town near Mount Fuji with scenic views, hot springs, and museums like the Hakone Open-Air Museum. It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of Japan’s nature without the crowds.

Skip: The Louvre, Paris

The Louvre is undeniably one of the world’s most famous museums, but it’s often overcrowded, and some people leave feeling like they missed out on its most impressive works due to the crowds. For a quieter art experience, consider visiting the Musée de l’Orangerie in the Tuileries Garden. It’s home to Monet’s stunning Water Lilies and a selection of other impressionist masterpieces in a much more serene setting.

Skip: The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

While the Pyramids of Giza are a bucket-list destination, the crowds, commercialism, and noise can take away from the majesty of these ancient wonders. Instead, take a trip to Saqqara, an archaeological site that houses the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Less crowded and equally impressive, Saqqara offers a more peaceful setting to admire ancient Egyptian history.

Skip: The Eiffel Tower, Paris

The Eiffel Tower is a must-see for many visitors to Paris, but long wait times, crowds, and expensive tickets can leave you frustrated. For a better view of Paris, head to Montparnasse Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city, including the Eiffel Tower itself. It’s less crowded, and the view is just as stunning—if not better.

Skip: Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii, but it often feels more like a resort zone than a tropical paradise. If you’re looking for a more peaceful and scenic beach experience, head to Kailua Beach on the windward side of Oahu. With its clear waters, soft sand, and tranquil atmosphere, Kailua Beach offers a far more laid-back and authentic Hawaiian experience.

Skip: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-see for pop culture enthusiasts, but the crowded streets filled with tourists and street vendors can leave you feeling more frustrated than entertained. Instead, visit Griffith Park and take a hike up to the Griffith Observatory. Not only will you get stunning views of the city and the iconic Hollywood sign, but you’ll also enjoy a quieter and more rewarding experience.

Visit: The 17th Century Windmills of Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Skip the crowded tulip fields and head to Kinderdijk, where you can admire UNESCO-listed windmills in a peaceful rural setting. The windmills are an iconic symbol of Dutch culture, and the serene surroundings make it the perfect spot for a scenic walk or bike ride. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, or nature, Kinderdijk offers an authentic Dutch experience far from the tourist mobs.

Visit: The Isle of Skye, Scotland

Instead of heading to Edinburgh or the Isle of Arran, explore the Isle of Skye, a stunning destination filled with dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Its rugged landscapes, including the famous Old Man of Storr and the Fairy Pools, offer breathtaking views and outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching. Skye is less crowded than other Scottish destinations, giving you a peaceful and majestic escape.

Visit: Bhutan’s Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

Rather than visiting crowded temples in India, make your way to Bhutan to hike up to the famous Paro Taktsang, or Tiger’s Nest. Situated on a cliffside 3,000 feet above the valley, this monastery offers not just an incredible view but also a spiritual experience. Bhutan remains one of the least-visited countries, making it a great destination for those seeking serenity and natural beauty.

Visit: The Faroe Islands, Denmark

If you’re seeking a remote, untouched destination, the Faroe Islands are the perfect alternative to Iceland. Known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and quiet villages, the Faroe Islands offer the same stunning natural beauty without the crowds. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers seeking peace and solitude.

Visit: The Azores, Portugal

For a hidden gem that rivals the beauty of the Mediterranean islands, head to the Azores. This archipelago of volcanic islands offers stunning landscapes, including crater lakes, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines, all surrounded by crystal-clear waters. With fewer tourists than mainland Portugal, the Azores provide an authentic and serene escape into nature.

Visit: Sri Lanka’s Ella

Instead of the busy beaches of Sri Lanka’s south coast, head inland to Ella, a small town surrounded by tea plantations and waterfalls. Take the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella for one of the most picturesque journeys in the world, and enjoy hikes like the one up to Ella Rock, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Visit: The Albanian Riviera

For stunning beaches without the crowds of the Greek islands, explore the Albanian Riviera. The beaches here are pristine, and the charming coastal towns like Dhermi and Himara are less touristy than their Mediterranean counterparts. The area offers an authentic Mediterranean experience, with crystal-clear waters, rugged landscapes, and warm hospitality.

Visit: Northern Portugal’s Douro Valley

Instead of heading to the overrun streets of Lisbon, take a trip to the Douro Valley, one of Portugal’s hidden gems. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its terraced vineyards, scenic river views, and charming small towns. You can take a leisurely boat ride down the Douro River or visit some of the region’s renowned wine estates for a peaceful and relaxing experience.

Visit: Madagascar’s Avenue of the Baobabs

Skip the crowded beaches of Africa and visit Madagascar’s Avenue of the Baobabs, a surreal and otherworldly landscape filled with towering trees. These ancient, iconic baobabs line a dirt road in western Madagascar, creating a dramatic and photo-worthy scene that is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. It’s a quiet and majestic location, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Visit: Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán

For a tranquil escape, head to Lake Atitlán, often hailed as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Surrounded by volcanoes and lush hills, this peaceful spot offers boat rides to charming lakeside villages and plenty of opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring local culture. Skip the touristy areas of Guatemala City and immerse yourself in this serene, stunning destination.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance