Overrated but Still Worth It: 12 Popular Travel Destinations People Can’t Resist
Not every famous travel destination lives up to the hype. Some places are overcrowded, overpriced, or just don’t have the magic that Instagram makes them seem to have. Yet, year after year, travelers keep returning to these spots, drawn by their reputation, iconic landmarks, or the simple joy of experiencing them firsthand. While some destinations may feel overrated, there’s often still something special about them—if you know what to expect. Here’s a look at some of the most famously overhyped places that people continue to visit—and love.
1. Times Square, New York City – A Tourist Trap with Energy You Can’t Ignore
Ask any New Yorker, and they’ll likely tell you to avoid Times Square at all costs. Crowded sidewalks, blinding billboards, and overpriced restaurants make it a chaotic and often exhausting experience. The endless sea of tourists snapping photos with costumed street performers or waiting in long lines for chain restaurants can make it feel more like an amusement park than an authentic city experience.
Yet, there’s still something undeniably thrilling about standing in the middle of it all. The bright lights, the sheer energy, and the sense of being at the center of the world make it a must-visit at least once. If you want to experience Times Square without the overwhelming crowds, consider visiting late at night when the lights are still glowing but the streets are quieter.
2. The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Los Angeles – More Grit Than Glamour
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous stretches of sidewalk in the world, lined with stars honoring entertainment legends. But in reality, it’s often underwhelming. The area is packed with tourists, street vendors, and costumed characters asking for tips, and many visitors are surprised by how unpolished and commercialized the surroundings feel.
Still, for movie lovers and first-time visitors, there’s something iconic about walking the same path as Hollywood legends. Seeing names of classic actors and directors embedded in the sidewalk gives a sense of history, and nearby attractions like the TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre add to the experience. If you go, set your expectations accordingly and treat it as a quick stop rather than a major highlight.
3. Santorini, Greece – Stunning Views, But at a Price
Santorini is the postcard-perfect Greek island that travel dreams are made of, with its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets. But what the photos don’t show are the massive crowds, skyrocketing prices, and cruise ship tourists flooding the narrow streets. In peak season, finding a quiet moment to enjoy the scenery can feel almost impossible.
Yet, despite the high costs and overcrowding, Santorini remains a bucket-list destination for good reason. The sunsets in Oia truly are spectacular, the Aegean Sea sparkles in ways that seem almost unreal, and the island’s unique architecture is something you won’t find anywhere else. For a more peaceful experience, visit in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) when the crowds are smaller, but the charm remains.
4. The Mona Lisa at The Louvre, Paris – A Tiny Masterpiece in a Sea of Selfies
Seeing the Mona Lisa in person is on many travelers’ Paris to-do lists, but the reality is often disappointing. The painting is much smaller than most people expect, and it’s nearly impossible to get a close-up look without elbowing through a crowd of eager tourists, all trying to snap the same blurry photo.
That said, the Louvre itself is a masterpiece, housing some of the most incredible art in the world. While the Mona Lisa might not be as impressive in person, wandering through the museum’s grand halls and discovering other works like the Winged Victory of Samothrace or the Venus de Milo makes the visit worthwhile. If you really want to see Da Vinci’s most famous work without the chaos, arrive early or explore the museum’s lesser-known wings instead.
5. Venice, Italy – A Romantic Fantasy That’s Sinking Under Tourism
Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its winding canals, gondolas, and centuries-old architecture. But it’s also one of the most overcrowded. During peak season, the narrow streets are packed with tourists, prices for food and accommodations soar, and the charm of the city can feel lost in the rush of selfie sticks and souvenir stands.
Despite the downsides, there’s a reason people keep coming back. The experience of drifting through the canals at sunset, getting lost in hidden alleyways, and stepping inside stunning landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica is still magical. To enjoy Venice without the crowds, visit in the off-season (winter can be particularly atmospheric) or explore beyond the usual tourist spots, where quieter corners of the city still hold the old-world charm.
6. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy – A One-Photo Stop
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous architectural mistakes in history, and while it’s undeniably cool to see, the experience itself is often underwhelming. The area around the tower is filled with tourists awkwardly posing for the classic “holding up the tower” photo, and beyond the tower itself, there’s not much else to do in Pisa.
However, the sight of the leaning tower is still impressive, and for many, taking the obligatory photo is a fun travel tradition. If you do visit, pair it with a trip to nearby Florence or the Tuscan countryside to make the journey more worthwhile.
7. The Blue Lagoon, Iceland – A Beautiful But Manufactured Experience
The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most famous attractions, but many visitors are surprised to learn that it’s not a natural hot spring—it’s actually a man-made geothermal spa filled with water from a nearby power plant. The entrance fees are high, and during peak hours, it can feel like a crowded theme park rather than a serene retreat.
That said, the milky blue waters and surrounding volcanic landscape still create a stunning scene. If you’re set on visiting, book your tickets well in advance and go early in the morning or late in the evening for a more peaceful experience. For a more natural alternative, consider one of Iceland’s lesser-known hot springs, like the Secret Lagoon or Mývatn Nature Baths.
8. Stonehenge, England – A Historic Wonder That Feels Distant
Stonehenge is one of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world, but the experience of visiting can be underwhelming for some. Visitors are no longer allowed to walk among the stones, and instead, they must view them from a distance behind a rope barrier. The site itself is relatively small, and some feel that the mystery and magic of Stonehenge don’t quite translate in person.
Despite this, it remains a fascinating piece of history, and for those interested in ancient civilizations, it’s still worth seeing. To make the most of your visit, consider booking a special access tour that allows closer entry or pairing your trip with nearby historic sites like Avebury or Salisbury Cathedral.
9. Waikiki Beach, Hawaii – A Paradise That’s Packed
Hawaii is famous for its stunning beaches, and Waikiki Beach on Oahu is one of the most well-known. But while the photos show pristine blue waters and golden sand, the reality is often very different. Waikiki is crowded year-round, lined with high-rise hotels, and filled with tourists jostling for space both on the beach and in the water.
However, Waikiki still has its charm. The views of Diamond Head in the distance, the vibrant nightlife, and the convenience of staying right by the ocean make it an exciting place to visit. If you want a more peaceful Hawaiian beach experience, consider heading to the North Shore or exploring the other islands, where the crowds are thinner and the scenery just as spectacular.
10. Bourbon Street, New Orleans – A Party Street That’s Not for Everyone
Bourbon Street is synonymous with New Orleans nightlife, drawing visitors in with its neon lights, live music, and endless flow of drinks. However, what many first-time tourists don’t expect is the overwhelming crowds, loud party atmosphere, and the less glamorous side of the street, which can feel chaotic and even a bit grimy. It’s not the charming, jazz-filled scene that some envision—it’s more of a raucous party district where revelers spill onto the streets well into the early morning hours.
That said, Bourbon Street is still an iconic part of New Orleans culture, and for those looking to experience the city’s high-energy side, it delivers. If you prefer a more relaxed and authentic experience, head to Frenchmen Street, where the live jazz bars offer incredible music without the overwhelming party scene.
11. The Little Mermaid Statue, Copenhagen – A Surprisingly Small Icon
Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid statue is one of Denmark’s most famous landmarks, but many visitors find themselves underwhelmed by its size and simplicity. The statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, sits on a rock by the water and is only about four feet tall. The area is often crowded with tourists trying to take the perfect picture, and some leave feeling like they traveled out of their way for a quick photo opportunity.
Despite its small stature, the statue remains an iconic symbol of Copenhagen and Danish culture. If you’re already exploring the city, it’s worth a short stop, but don’t let it be the main highlight of your trip. Instead, explore Nyhavn’s colorful harbor, Tivoli Gardens, or the city’s vibrant cycling culture for a more memorable experience.
12. Loch Ness, Scotland – A Beautiful Lake Overshadowed by a Myth
The legend of the Loch Ness Monster has turned this Scottish lake into a world-famous destination, but for many visitors, the reality doesn’t quite match the myth. While Loch Ness is undeniably scenic, it looks like many other lakes in Scotland, and those expecting a dramatic or eerie setting may be disappointed. The town of Drumnadrochit, a popular stop for Nessie hunters, is filled with touristy attractions that lean into the monster myth rather than offering much historical or cultural depth.
However, Loch Ness is still worth visiting for its natural beauty, especially when combined with a trip to Urquhart Castle, which offers stunning views over the water. If you’re drawn to Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes, consider visiting other lochs like Loch Lomond or Loch Tay, which offer similar beauty without the commercialized feel.
