Tourist Traps Worth Visiting

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By: Vicky Carroll
Published: November 3, 2016
Last Update: December 15, 2022

Some of the world's most popular travel destinations are over-hyped and not as good as you might hope. But others live up to expectations, as is the case with this run down of the top 10 tourist traps worth visiting.

Travelling to attractions that are on almost everyone’s bucket list can seem daunting, as there will be crowds to overcome and likely getting that perfect photograph in front of the attraction will be just as challenging. However, the payoff of seeing the most famous and worthwhile attractions that man has ever created is gratifying enough to brave the crowds.

Tower Bridge, London, England

The World’s most famous bridge, is one of the world’s tourist traps worth visiting for several reasons. Tower Bridge is located on London’s legendary River Thames and is renowned as a lifting bridge. Check out the Victorian engine room, walk on the glass floors or simply take in the views of London.

Top Tourist Traps Worth Visiting - Tower Bridge, London, EnglandCopyright: sborisov / 123RF Stock Photo

Statue of Liberty, New York, USA

Lady Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy known around the world. A visit to New York would not be complete without paying a visit to the Statue of Liberty. View New York Harbour from many observation decks including one from the Statue’s Crown, visit the Liberty museum or take a tour of Liberty Island.

Statue of Liberty, New York, USACopyright: dvrcan / 123RF Stock Photo

Louvre, Paris, France

France is arguably the best country in the world to go to an art museum as it has many of the best exhibits in the world. The Louvre is one of the world’s tourist traps worth visiting as it is the largest museum and the priceless artwork contained in the Louvre is fascinating for both art lovers and history buffs.

Louvre, Paris, FranceCopyright: orpheus26 / 123RF Stock Photo

Great Pyramid of Giza, Cairo, Egypt

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Giza is oldest Wonder. The largest of the pyramids, the Great Pyramid, is the only pyramid left intact and that is what makes it one of the world’s tourist traps worth visiting.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Cairo, EgyptCopyright: pakhnyushchyy / 123RF Stock Photo

Colosseum, Rome, Italy

When in Rome it is a must to visit the Colosseum! Located in the centre of Rome, it is challenging to get to the Colosseum due to the congestion of the roads, however a gratifying trip. The largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum was used to host gladiator competitions for the Emperor and Roman spectators. It is a sight to behold.

Colosseum, Rome, ItalyCopyright: citalliance / 123RF Stock Photo

Acropolis, Athens, Greece

The Acropolis is another one of the world’s tourist traps worth visiting, as there has economically never been a better time to visit Greece. Greece needs tourist dollars, so take a trip at a discount to see this citadel overlooking Athens. The architecture and history is always worth seeing and the buildings atop of the Acropolis date back to roughly 400 BC.

Acropolis, Athens, Greece Copyright: sborisov / 123RF Stock Photo

Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China is an expansive fortification wall along its northern border that served to protect China from invasion. While the wall is no longer geopolitically necessary it draws over 10 million tourists annually. It is worthwhile visiting the Great Wall despite the throngs of people as there are many different tours and areas of the wall that people visit, so this disperses the crowds. The history and views of the Great Wall of China are unmatched.

Great Wall of ChinaCopyright: drfoto / 123RF Stock Photo

Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu is by far the biggest attraction that draws sightseers to Peru. Machu Picchu is one of the world’s tourist traps worth visiting, as it offers spectacular views of the surrounding Andes and offers a glimpse into the culture of the ancient Incans. Classified as a World Heritage site there is something mysterious and spiritual about this destination that you must experience for yourself.

Machu Picchu, Peru Copyright: belikova / 123RF Stock Photo

Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal is the most iconic image of India. Another World Heritage site, the Taj Mahal is the epitome of Muslim architecture and also boasts beautiful formal gardens. Millions of tourists visit the Taj Mahal annually to take in its magnificence. Take the trip to see the beautiful marble building and observe this piece of Indian history up close for yourself.

Taj Mahal, IndiaCopyright: rawpixel / 123RF Stock Photo

Christ the Redeemer, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

No visit to Brazil is complete without making the trip to see Christ the Redeemer. The statue is visible from all vantage points of Rio and serves as a compass for its inhabitants. Looking out from the peak of Corcovado Mountain will give you the best vantage point of the city of Rio. While this attraction is the most popular in Brazil, it is a once-in a lifetime opportunity.

Christ the Redeemer, Rio De Janeiro, BrazilCopyright: celsodiniz / 123RF Stock Photo