Top 50 Tourist Traps of 2025: Where Visitors Feel Most Disappointed

Every year, millions of travelers chase iconic sights and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But instead, many find themselves stuck in crowds and overpaying for underwhelming attractions.

While some landmarks live up to the hype, others disappoint with long lines, overpriced tickets, and a lack of authenticity.

To help travelers avoid disappointment, Nomad eSIM analyzed thousands of online reviews for attractions in 50 popular destinations worldwide. By tracking mentions of “tourist trap,” we identified the spots most likely to leave visitors frustrated.

Key findings:

• The Wall Drug and the Fisherman’s Wharf are joint worst tourist traps worldwide, both counting 1,000 mentions of the phrase ‘tourist trap’ in reviews
• Barcelona’s ‘Ramblas’ are the second biggest tourist trap in the world, followed by the Temple Bar in Ireland
• The Royal Mile in Edinburgh is the biggest tourist trap in the UK, with 539 mentions of ‘tourist trap’ in its reviews
• The most expensive tourist trap is the Eiffel Tower

Top 5 Worst Tourist Traps in the World

1. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco and Wall Drug, South Dakota (1,000 reviews)

Wall Drug in South Dakota started in 1931 as a small-town pharmacy and became world-famous thanks to its quirky billboards and offer of free ice water to hot travelers crossing the plains. Today, it’s a massive, kitschy roadside attraction with a Western theme, featuring everything from a giant jackalope and an 80-foot dinosaur to 5-cent coffee, fresh donuts, an old-timey photo studio, and over 300 pieces of Western art.

Attracting about 2 million visitors annually, it’s a blend of nostalgia, spectacle, and Americana. Still, not everyone is charmed: more than 1,000 reviews label Wall Drug a “tourist trap,” describing it as “very crammed and tacky” and warning that “you will be ripped off by every store owner in town.”

Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco shares that unfortunate title, also ranking as the world’s worst tourist trap, with 1,000 reviews using the same phrase. While it's located on the city’s northern waterfront and attracts around 12 million visitors a year with its souvenir shops, seafood restaurants, and sea lion sightings, many travelers are underwhelmed. Some describe the area as “dirty, run down and overcrowded,” saying it’s “only worth it to see the seals.”

2. Las Ramblas, Spain (826 reviews)

With 826 reviews, Las Ramblas, in Barcelona, is the second worst tourist trap in the world. This iconic promenade runs for 1.2 kilometers through central Barcelona, and is packed with shops, eateries, and attractions. While some travelers enjoy its energetic vibe, others find the experience chaotic and overwhelming. The area is often packed with crowds and is known for pickpocketing.

Visitors find that it’s “one of the most overrated roads in the world”, and some even go as far as to say that “it should be on your DO NOT DO list”.

If you’re planning a trip to Spain and want to stay away from the tourist traps, check out our suggestions for less touristy things to do in Barcelona.

3. Temple Bar, Ireland (687 reviews)

Temple Bar in Dublin takes the third spot among the world’s most notorious tourist traps, earning its reputation with over 687 reviews. Known for its cobbled streets, colorful pubs, and exciting nightlife, the area draws huge crowds seeking an “authentic” Irish experience. But for many visitors, the reality doesn’t live up to the hype. Complaints range from sky-high prices and rowdy stag parties to a lack of genuine local culture. One reviewer summed it up as “overcrowded, overpriced and overrated.”

4. Checkpoint Charlie, Germany (681 reviews)

Coming in fourth is Checkpoint Charlie in Berlin, with 681 reviews calling it a tourist trap. Once a symbol of the Cold War divide between East and West Berlin, today it’s mostly a photo backdrop flanked by souvenir stalls and people dressed in fake military uniforms. While the site still attracts crowds, many travelers describe it as disappointing. One reviewer said “For somewhere with so much historical importance, it has become a cheap and nasty tourist spot”.

5. Royal Mile, Edinburgh (539 reviews)

This 1.81 km stretch of cobbled street in Edinburgh links two of the city’s top attractions, the Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It attracts more than four million visitors annually. But with that heavy foot traffic comes an overwhelming number of souvenir shops, and complete lack of authenticity. 539 reviews labeled it a tourist trap, and a local expressed their disappointment, saying “Bring back the days when locals could live and work in the area without locusts like plagues of tourists!”

Top 5 Most Expensive Tourist Traps Worldwide

Not all tourist traps are just about crowds and underwhelming experiences, some also cost a small fortune. Based on the number of reviews mentioning the phrase “tourist trap” and the cost of entry, our research highlighted these five global attractions stand out as the priciest disappointments.

1. Graceland, Tennessee, USA ($17,304 total lost)

Topping the list is Graceland, with 206 reviews calling it a “tourist trap” and an entry fee of $84.00. Though undeniably historic, many visitors complain about the extremely long waits and the poor organization of the attraction. According to our research, disappointed tourists have collectively lost around $17,304 here.

Total lost in €: 14 754.37

Total lost in £: 10,851.47

###2. Grand Canyon Skywalk, Arizona, USA ($13,872 total lost)

In second place is the Grand Canyon Skywalk with 204 mentions of ‘tourist trap’ and comes with a hefty entry fee of $84.00. While it remains one of the most visited landmarks in the world, many visitors feel the price doesn’t match the experience, especially since the different pricing options were switched for the $99 all access pass. The total cost of dissatisfaction here adds up to $13,872.

Total lost in €: 11 827.54

Total lost in £: 10,202.51

3. Biltmore Estate, North Carolina ($12,870 total lost)

Third on the list is the Biltmore Estate, North Carolina’s historic country estate. While it’s said to be the number one thing to do in Asheville, 99 reviewers called it a tourist trap because of the crowds and high ticket price. With a $130.00 entry fee, the estimated total loss among disappointed visitors is $12,870.

Total lost in €: 10 973.22

Total lost in £: 8,075.61

4. Eiffel Tower, Paris ($7,411 total lost)

Ranking fourth on the list is the Eiffel Tower, with 303 reviews calling it a “tourist trap” and an entry fee of $24. While it remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world, many visitors feel the price doesn’t match the experience, especially when factoring in long queues, crowds, and aggressive street vendors. According to our research, disappointed tourists have collectively lost around $7,411 here.

Total lost in €: 4 653.54

Total lost in £: 5,454.28

5. Petra, Jordan ($6,924 total lost)

In fifth place is Petra, Jordan’s iconic archaeological site, which comes with a hefty entry fee of $70. Though undeniably historic and visually stunning, 98 reviews still labeled it a “tourist trap,” with complaints about inflated prices, limited amenities, and pushy vendors. The total cost of dissatisfaction here adds up to $6,924.

Total lost in €: 4 350.08

Total lost in £: 5,096.99

The Worst Tourist Traps in the U.S

As mentioned above, the Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco and Wall Drug in South Dakota are the most notorious tourist traps in the US, each attracting millions of visitors annually despite being widely criticized for inflated prices, overcrowding, and a lack of genuine local culture. Hawaii’s Dole Plantation also gets called out for long lines and pricey souvenirs with little substance.

Urban hot spots like Times Square in New York and Navy Pier in Chicago are frequently described as chaotic, commercialized, and lacking authentic local feel. Hyman’s Seafood in Charleston and Historic River Street in Savannah are labeled overpriced and overhyped, much like Seattle’s Pike Place Market, which some say is more photo op than local experience. Duval Street in Key West is another example, filled with tacky bars and trinket shops. Even Elvis isn’t safe: Memphis’ Graceland has been dubbed “the tourist trap from hell” by disappointed fans.

The Worst Tourist Traps in the UK

The Royal Mile in Edinburgh is the most notorious tourist trap, drawing millions each year but often criticized for being lined with overpriced souvenir shops and lacking the authenticity it once had. Similarly, the London Eye, while offering iconic views, is frequently slammed for long waits, high prices, and underwhelming value.

Land’s End, the southwesternmost point of England, is often called out for feeling more like a commercial theme park than a natural wonder. Covent Garden and Camden Market, both known for their interesting pasts, are now described by some visitors as overcrowded, touristy, and inflated in price. The Witchery in Edinburgh, a gothic-style restaurant near the castle, draws criticism for prioritizing style over substance.

Even heritage landmarks aren’t immune. York’s Shambles, with its crooked medieval buildings and Harry Potter-themed shops, is often described as more Instagram bait than immersive history. Madame Tussauds in London is regularly dismissed as overpriced and dated, while the Tower of London and Edinburgh Castle, though undeniably historic, are sometimes seen as too commercial and packed to fully enjoy.

Travel Expert Tips to Avoid Tourist Traps

1. Ask the locals

One of the best ways to discover genuine experiences is to ask the people who actually live there. Locals know where to find the best food, less crowded viewpoints, and hidden gems that tourists don’t tend to know about. A quick chat with a hotel staff member, barista, or even a taxi driver can lead to valuable insights you won’t find online.

2. Do your own research

Don’t rely solely on what’s ranked #1 on a travel site. Dig into blogs, forums, and social media to get real feedback from travelers. Look for mentions of long queues, inflated prices, or “tourist trap” warnings in reviews. Sites like Reddit, TripAdvisor forums, and Google Maps reviews often provide brutally honest perspectives.

3. Avoid peak season

Tourist traps are at their worst during high season. Traveling in the shoulder season (spring or early autumn) can make a huge difference. You’ll face fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, locals tend to be more welcoming when they’re not overwhelmed by masses of tourists.

4. Walk a few blocks away

Sometimes, all it takes to avoid a tourist trap is walking a few minutes away from the main attraction or road. Restaurants and shops right next to famous landmarks often charge more and deliver less. Just a short stroll into a nearby neighborhood can lead to better food, cheaper souvenirs, and a more authentic vibe.

5. Prioritize experiences over icons

While it’s tempting to tick off every major landmark, some of the most rewarding travel moments come from experiences, and not just sights. Consider joining a local cooking class, hiking a lesser-known trail, or visiting a smaller town nearby. These options often provide richer memories than standing in line for a selfie.

6. Watch out for red flags

Excessive signage in English, pushy salespeople, identical souvenir stalls, and high prices without locals in sight are all classic signs of a tourist trap. If it feels manufactured or designed purely for outsiders, it probably is. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to walk away.

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Methodology

In order to find the biggest tourist traps worldwide, we first found the top 50 most visited countries globally using data from UNWTO reports. For each location, we then scoured reviews of their top attractions on Tripadvisor, filtering for reviews containing the phrase "tourist trap", ranking each attraction for each country. We then repeated this process for each US state, and for the top attractions across the UK.

In order to find out the total money wasted on tourist traps, we identified their ticket price and multiplied this by the number of reviews containing the phrase "tourist trap".