Are there places you want to tick off your bucket list or breathtaking landmarks that you want to experience?
Why not visit one of the many tourist traps around the world?
Now look, we get it! ‘Tourist trap attractions’ or ‘best tourist traps’ can often equate to destinations that are overpriced, overcrowded and, ultimately, not worth it!
However, in this guide, we have put together a list of the best tourist traps worth visiting that you can tick off your bucket list!
Keep reading to find out more.
What is considered a tourist trap?
A tourist trap is defined as any place that attracts tourists.
Generally, goods and services in these places are more expensive.
Usually, these locations are very popular and often overcrowded with tourists on holidays visiting each year.
There are many different types of tourists you will find each year at these sites.
Most times you will find these tourist attractions on people’s bucket lists and are a ‘must-see’.
When visiting tourist attractions, always be responsible for yourself and your actions.
Each year tourist traps are faced with tons of waste from visitors so be respectful to the surroundings and to the earth.
To find out more, check out our guide on tourism types.
What tourist traps are worth visiting?
Below we have listed 8 of our top tourist attractions that we think you will really enjoy!
Statue of Liberty, New York City, USA
Out of all the attractions in New York, this is definitely one that every tourist must-see.
This iconic site lights the way to freedom and shows visitors to the US the path to Liberty.
Built in 1886, the statue stands at 152 feet, making it one of the world’s largest statues.
You can see the statue from inland, however, the true views are on Liberty Island where you can take a short ferry trip out and see it up close.
Tourists can walk around the base or even climb right up to the crown. However, you must book in advance for this.
You are also given the option to stop and tour Ellis Island and see the Immigration Museum.
This is where thousands of immigrants were processed before entering the US.
Here, you can view the book with all the names of immigrants who came in – keep an eye out for your own family surname.
Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
At a massive height of 324 meters, witness one of the best tourist traps Europe has to offer!
The structure includes 18,000 iron parts and is held together by 2.5 million rivets.
The purpose of the Eiffel Tower was to be an entrance to the World’s Fair in 1998.
However, the tower was only supposed to last for 20 years and now has ended up becoming an iconic tourist attraction and the highlight of any tourist’s trip to France!
You can get to the Eiffel Tower by the nearest Metro stations which are Trocadero, Iena, Bir-Hakeim and Passy.
The RER train also stops at the Tour Eiffel station – Champ de Mars.
With just under seven million yearly visitors like most tourist traps, you are often met with hour-long waits for the guided tour of the Eiffel Tower.
However, if you book online you can avoid the wait.
Prices vary depending on your type of visit so be aware!
The best time to visit the tower is before 9 am or after 6 pm, in the summer months the Eiffel Tower is open for longer hours for visitors.
Be careful while you’re here as you may be met with pickpockets in elevators and crowded areas!
The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The largest and most famous structure still standing from the Roman Empire back in AD 72, it’s a sight not to disappoint.
It became accessible to the public in 2010, it’s located in the heart of the city, therefore, it is an easy place for tourists to visit.
The name – Colosseum – comes from the immense statue of Nero called the colossus after Colossus of Rhodes.
You can take a guided tour and find out information about the Colosseum or explore around it on your own, taking in the wonders of the remarkable structure.
Remember to wear good walking shoes as the ground is uneven with lots of stones.
Backpacks and large bags are not allowed inside the Colosseum and they do not offer a place to store them.
Pyramids of Giza, Northern Egypt
The most popular Egyptian tourist attractions are the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza located on the edge of the Cairo desert.
Giza is a monumental tourist trap to visit as it allows visitors to explore the ancient vanished world.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is known to be also called the Khufu Pyramid or the Pyramid of Cheops.
These tombs are over 4,500 years old which makes them the oldest and last surviving of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Great Pyramid of Giza is a massive 481 feet tall!
You can see the fascinating artwork from the ancient Egyptians on the limestone walls of the tombs showcasing pictures of the work of ancient farmers, burial and religious practices and Egyptian costumes.
The pyramids are full of low tunnels and steep steps to watch out for! It is advisable to wear suitable footwear when visiting the pyramids.
The desert in the summer months temperatures average around 86 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit with no shade.
It is recommended that tourists bring plenty of water with them to this tourist trap.
They certainly are a fascinating sight and a must-see tourist attraction!
Great Wall of China, Huairou, China
Built between the 14th and 17th centuries, this is an essential stop for tourists that can stroll along the top of the wall and take in the incredible view of the structure.
The Wall brings over 10 million tourists each year making it one of the world’s most visited tourist attractions!
It reaches 6,000 kilometres from Shanhaiguan in the east to Jiayuguan in the west.
It is a great tourist attraction to rewind and to escape the modern busy cities.
The most popular tourist trap along the wall is near Badaling Pass just northwest of Beijing.
You can reach this area by public transport or an organized tour.
The best time to visit is spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and it is easier to walk.
Remember to bring water with you – you’ll need it!
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The Taj Mahal, Agra India
The 17th century Taj Mahal is the most popular tourist attraction in India!
The story behind this mausoleum was commissioned by Shah Jahan for his wife as a symbol of love.
The structure was made with white marble semi-precious stones incorporating different elements of Islamic design such as black calligraphy, arches and onion-shaped domes.
Visitors can enjoy its river setting, reflecting pools and surrounding gardens that also make the Taj Mahal so exceptional.
If you can try to catch the Taj Mahal’s reflection on the bank of the Yamuna River – it’s magical.
Recommended time to visit the Taj Mahal is at dawn or dusk when the atmosphere is changed by the altered lighting.
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA
The USA’s greatest natural attraction looking over the carved out landscape and breathtaking views.
It is said to give tourists a deep sense of awe overlooking the Grand Canyon.
There are visitor resources on the South Rim and North Rim of the Grand Canyon, however, most visitors go to the South Rim.
The most popular time to visit is between June and August despite the hotter temperatures and sporadic thunderstorms.
Ideally, the best time to visit is spring or fall. You will find it quieter and there will be cooler temperatures making it easier to enjoy.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Opened in 1973, it is an easily identified landmark associated with Australia.
You will find tourists experiencing the building with guided tours inside to observe the unique shape and listen out for the exceptional acoustics.
After touring, witness the stunning view back towards the Sydney Harbour Bridge, another world-famous landmark.
Make sure to take a photo in front of the white sails of the Opera house – this screams Australia!
So, there you have it, our top 8 tourist traps that you will actually enjoy!
For some of the locations we have listed, you will need a visa, so why not apply with Visa First today?
How can I apply for a visa after I’ve decided where to travel to?
You can easily apply for your visa with Visa First.
Once you choose your destination, you must be eligible for the visa and provide the required documents.
Then, you can leave the rest up to Visa First – we’ll take it from there!
Why Choose Visa First?
We have 17 years of experience dealing with successful visa applications.
We aim to provide easy and convenient visa processing and immigration services, while avoiding long queues at the local embassy or consulate.
Our team of visa experts will guide you through the tedious application process.
We will make sure you have every document and form you need and that they are completed correctly.
Your chances of a successful visa application will be boosted if you apply with Visa First.
The company has been a visa expert since 2003 and has over 1 million clients worldwide with a 99.7% approval success rate.
If you are interested in visiting the country listed above, Visa First can help you get there!
Hurry up and apply for your visa today!
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