We’re all familiar with tourist traps, those places that draw big crowds and overcharge for food, activities, and souvenirs. Much of the time, we leave thinking we never should have bothered going in the first place. However, there are some tourist destinations that, despite the throngs of people and the high prices, are actually worth visiting at least once.

These destinations were selected because they transcend typical tourist expectations, offering profound historical, cultural, and natural experiences that justify braving the crowds and costs. Travel expert Karee Blunt provides personal insights on some of the locations, offering firsthand experiences and recommendations.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Pictures of this German castle can leave you wondering if it’s real since it seems almost too perfect. It’s very much real, though, and you can take a tour of the interior or just admire it from the outside.

“We added Neuschwanstein to our German castle tour because it’s the most famous, knowing full well it was a very touristy place. We are so glad we did! It was such a fascinating place to visit and well worth getting tickets to see the inside, too!” – Karee Blunt

The Acropolis

Once the seat of Athenian government and culture, the Acropolis is now a travel destination for tourists from around the world. Nevertheless, it remains an impressive sight, and walking in the footsteps of those who built democracy ages ago is humbling.

Hobbiton Movie Set

New Zealand was the filming location for the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and the movie set for Hobbiton is open to visitors. Any Tolkien fan will appreciate experiencing this very touristy but very fun site.

Niagara Falls

The commercialization of this natural marvel on the border of New York and Canada has stripped any sense of wilderness away, but it hasn’t reduced the grandeur of the falls themselves. This massive, roaring waterfall is worth seeing at least once.

“There’s really no way to grasp the enormity of Niagra Falls until you see it in person. Also, if you have the chance to take the boat tour, I absolutely recommend doing it! You’ll get completely drenched, but there’s no other way to get so close up to the falls. They really are stunning!” – Karee Blunt

The Colosseum

No first visit to Rome should leave out a visit to this famous complex that has withstood time and vandalism relatively intact. If you close your eyes and try to tune out the crowds around you, it’s possible to feel a sense of all the history that occurred here.

The Taj Mahal

Forget about avoiding the crowds at this tomb in India that more resembles a palace. Still, it’s an impressive work of architecture, and seeing it up close is something you won’t forget.

Petra

In the film Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, this ancient city served as the lost site of the Holy Grail. In reality, it’s nowhere close to forgotten in real life, but this relic in the desert of Jordan doesn’t disappoint.

Alcatraz Island

The legendary prison on this island in San Francisco was in operation from 1934 to 1963. During that time, it housed some of America’s most infamous criminals, including Al Capone. Because of sharks and dangerous currents, “The Rock” was deemed impossible to escape from.

“If you’re in San Francisco, take the time to tour Alcatraz. It’s a fascinating look into what life was like for the prisoners held there. And, if you’re into spooky outings, book a night tour – it’s a totally different feel than it is during the day!” – Karee Blunt

The Las Vegas Strip

Nevada’s Sin City may be the ultimate tourist trap, the cheap prime rib buffets notwithstanding. However, even if you’re not into gambling, it’s a lot of fun visiting the Strip for its lights, shows, and other activities. There’s even been a big push in recent decades to offer a lot of family-friendly fun.

“You don’t have to be into drinking or gambling to appreciate the uniqueness of the Las Vegas Strip! If nothing else, the variety in the architecture makes it worth a visit and there are some pretty cool things to do for free, like the water fountain show in front of the Bellagio.” – Karee Blunt

The Eiffel Tower

This Parisian landmark is something you’ve seen in so many pictures and movies that you might have a ho-hum take on it. Seeing it in person is a very different experience and is bound to leave you impressed.

“If you’re in Paris, you’ll almost certainly see the Eiffel Tower, but going up in it is an experience in itself. The view from the top is spectacular! Be sure to see it at night, too, when it’s all lit up with lights. It’s quite a sight to see!” – Karee Blunt

The Grand Canyon

The roads in this national park in Arizona can seem like parking lots on weekends and during peak vacation season, and the actual parking lots are often full, leaving you to circle them again and again in hopes of finding a spot. Once you finally get out of the car and stand at an overlook on the rim, though, you’ll understand why this masterpiece of erosion is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

“I 100% recommend everyone makes it a point to see the Grand Canyon at some point in life. Pictures will never do it justice!” – Karee Blunt

The Statue of Liberty

Like the Eiffel Tower, this New York landmark on Ellis Island has been in so many pictures and films that you may have little interest in seeing it for real. Don’t make the mistake of skipping it over; the real thing is more impressive than you might think, and you can almost feel the presence of the generations of immigrants who passed through here.

“I know it seems cliche, but don’t skip the chance to see Lady Liberty. Whether you go out to the island or take a river cruise that passes by her, you simply can’t go to NYC without seeing the Statue of Liberty up close. She’s worth it!” – Karee Blunt

The Pyramids of Giza

Only seeing these architectural marvels in person can make you fully appreciate the colossal task that building these gargantuan tombs must have been. The Great Pyramid of Giza is also the only one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World that still exists today. Extensive preservation and restoration efforts have helped keep these pyramids from being swallowed by the shifting desert sands.

Angkor Wat

As the largest religious monument in the world, this Cambodian complex of temples is the size of a city. Its original purpose was to be a place to worship the Hindu god Vishnu.

Stonehenge

We still don’t know why ancient people created this site, the most famous of its type in England. Popular theories include a burial ground and a site for ritual sacrifices. Equally amazing is the effort it must have taken to transport the stones there.

The Great Wall of China

Although it’s not the only human-made structure visible from space, the Great Wall is the largest. It spans more than 13,000 miles over its entirety, and it took more than 1,000 years to complete.

“There are many places to visit the Great Wall of China, mostly around Beijing. Climbing the well-worn stone steps, knowing they’ve survived almost three thousand years before you, is a surreal experience. If you’re up for the adventure, visit Mutianyu Great Wall and ride the toboggan all the way down. That will forever be one of my favorite memories of our visit there!” – Karee Blunt

The Blue Lagoon

The famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland is filled with geothermally warmed seawater that’s a sparkling turquoise color. It’s touristy, and travel to Iceland is pricey, but it’s worth the visit for the setting and the experience.

Christ the Redeemer

You’ve seen this symbol of Christianity towering over Rio de Janeiro in countless pictures and movies, but you have to see it up close to appreciate this 125’ tall statue. Just be ready to share it with a throng of people.

Sacré-Cœur

French for “sacred heart,” this elaborate Roman Catholic church sits atop the hill of Montmartre. If you climb the 300 steps to the dome, your reward will be amazing views of Paris.

Sagrada Familia

Located in Barcelona, Spain, this is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world. Construction began in 1882, but progress was slow. Renewed progress had completion on track for 2026, but the covid pandemic led to new delays. Full completion now looks to be in 2040.

Kyoto

This Japanese city is always packed with tourists, and for good reason. It’s a uniquely beautiful city that every admirer of architecture and design should see at least once.

Venice

This famous Italian city covers 126 islands connected by open waters and canals. One visit here will help you understand why it has long inspired authors, poets, artists, and seekers of romance.

Machu Picchu

If you think this ancient Inca citadel looks impressive in pictures, wait until you see it in person. The classic way to visit this Peruvian site is to make the full trek to it, but there are buses that can take you to the entrance.

The Louvre

The world’s most famous art museum is never empty, but you won’t mind. Once you see some of the greatest works of art ever created up close, you’ll forget the crowds as awe and humbleness take over in this Parisian landmark.

“Much like the Eiffel Tower, you can’t go to Paris without visiting the Louvre. Even if you’re not into art, it’s still worth it from a historical aspect. The building itself is one of the largest palaces in Europe and you can take a quick trip through to see the most iconic pieces of art. Prepare to be shocked at how small the Mona Lisa actually is!” – Karee

Oktoberfest

Many towns and cities in America host Oktoberfest festivals, but the real thing is in Germany. Attending will give you an authentic and unforgettable immersion into German culture, even if you don’t speak the language.

The Golden Gate Bridge

San Francisco’s iconic bridge is another one of those places you’ve seen in media seemingly millions of times but truly has to be seen in person to be believed. The best way to experience it is to walk across it, and you can do that for free.

“If you have time, rent an e-bike and cross the bridge that way. Of course, that’s if it’s not foggy that day, which it often is. We went on a beautiful sunny day and getting to bike across it was so much fun! Absolutely worth the effort and the e-bikes make it a breeze.” – Karee Blunt

Banff

Banff is the name of both a town and national park in Alberta’s Canadian Rockies. It’s always busy and expensive there, but the mountain scenery is among the most stunning in the world, and any stay will feel too short.

“Banff is one of the most beautiful places you can visit. Be sure to take the gondola to the top of Sulpher Mountain and spend some time at the top. If you time it right, you can enjoy an amazing sunset dinner and then stick around for the light show. It’s the best way to spend an evening there!” – Karee Blunt

The Spice Market of Istanbul

It’s probably never quiet and uncrowded here, but all the history and culture here still make it worth visiting. Plus, you can actually get some really good prices here.