Unmissable Travel Advice: Avoid These Tourist Traps in 2026

Published on December 25, 2025

In 2026, when preparing for your trip, remember that your itinerary needs to include evert famous landmark. And, equally importantly, try to include attractions that will leave you feeling disappointed. Attractions that are not worth visiting have been compiled by travel specialists for your convenience, so you can avoid these sites. From the overly crowded sites in the UK to the overly commercialized attractions in Europe, here are the sites to avoid and the reasons why.

1. The Grand Canyon, USA
While the Grand Canyon is undeniably beautiful, it’s also one of the most visited national parks in the world. The vast number of tourists can make it feel overcrowded, and the most accessible areas often lack the quiet awe of nature that many seek. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting less commercialized parks like Zion National Park or the Great Smoky Mountains.

2. Leicester Square, London, UK
Leicester Square in London is notorious for its heavy foot traffic and touristy atmosphere. Full of fast-food chains and global retail stores, it doesn’t offer the authentic London experience many travelers expect. While it’s known for its proximity to theatres, the area is often crowded and lacks the charm of other parts of London. To get a true feel of the city, head to quieter, more scenic spots like Covent Garden or Hyde Park.

3. The Colosseum, Rome, Italy
The Colosseum is one of Rome’s most famous landmarks, but it can be a disappointment due to overcrowding and long waits. The ticket prices are high, and the actual experience can feel rushed with the crowds of tourists. To enjoy the Roman Empire’s history more intimately, explore the Roman Forum or Palatine Hill, where you’ll find fewer crowds and a deeper connection to ancient Rome.

4. The M&M Store, London, UK
Another location in Leicester Square, the M&M Store, is often criticized for being a giant tourist trap. While it may seem exciting at first with its bright colors and candy-themed merchandise, it doesn’t offer much beyond a branded shopping experience. For a more engaging experience in London, opt for a visit to the British Museum or take a walk along the South Bank.

5. The Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
While the Eiffel Tower is an iconic symbol of Paris, many tourists find the long lines and expensive tickets for an elevator ride up to the top a bit of a letdown. The crowds are incessant, and the views from the tower aren’t necessarily better than those from nearby spots like Montmartre or the Sacré-Cœur. Consider experiencing Paris from a more relaxed vantage point and save your money for other attractions like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay.

6. John O’Groats, Scotland, UK
Located in the far north of Scotland, John O’Groats is a popular destination for travelers seeking the “northernmost point of mainland Britain.” However, this claim is misleading, as the actual northernmost point is Dunnet Head, just a few miles away. The village itself is small, with few attractions, and many visitors feel it doesn’t live up to its reputation. If you’re in Scotland, consider heading to the Isle of Skye or the Orkney Islands for a more rewarding experience.

7. The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy
While the Leaning Tower of Pisa is undeniably famous, it’s also one of the most photographed and overhyped landmarks in Europe. The site is often crowded with tourists trying to take the classic “holding up the tower” photo, making it feel more like a photo-op than a meaningful experience. While Pisa has other attractions, such as the Cathedral of Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli, this landmark may not be worth the time and effort for many visitors.

8. Venice, Italy
Venice’s canals, gondolas, and historic buildings are captivating, but the city is plagued by overcrowding. The influx of tourists, especially during peak seasons, can detract from the magic of Venice. In recent years, the local government has introduced measures to limit the number of visitors, but still, the sheer number of people can make a trip here feel less magical. Explore other Italian gems like Florence or the Amalfi Coast for a more serene experience.

9. The Acropolis, Athens, Greece
The Acropolis is a must-see for history enthusiasts, but many travelers find the experience to be less than impressive. The ticket prices have gone up, and with limited shade on hot days, the climb to the top can be exhausting. The crowds of tourists detract from the beauty and significance of the site. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or exploring other historical locations in Greece, such as Delphi or Olympia, for a quieter experience.

10. Juliet’s Balcony, Verona, Italy
Juliet’s balcony in Verona is one of the most famous tourist attractions, thanks to its connection with Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” However, it’s important to note that Shakespeare never visited Verona, and the balcony itself wasn’t part of the original house. It was added in the 1930s, casting doubt on its authenticity. With crowds often overwhelming the site, and a €12 entry fee, many visitors feel it’s more of a money-making scheme than a meaningful historical experience. If you’re in Verona, consider exploring its rich history and beautiful architecture instead.

Conclusion
While plenty of travelers flock to these notable spots on their travels, many find the experience lacking, Without a doubt, the most pertinent focus for your travels in 2026 and beyond, will be the balance between the most sought after locations and the balance of the lesser known sites most travelers overlook for the greatest personalized experience. These lesser known locations often provide an experience away from the heavy over-commercialized areas and from these sitancing large crowds, enriching your trip. These are the locations you will want to focus for your travels – a place to immerse yourself in the true local culture, history, and breathtaking nature.

With the right planning and timing, you can dodge the disapointment that often comes hand in hand when tourist traps become overhyped, allowing you to have a one of a kind travel experience for 2026 or beyond.