48 of the most overrated tourist attractions in the world

Why it’s overrated: It’s one of the most expensive department stores in the world – and one of the most iconic. Filled with all sorts of goods, many people flock here to bring a little something home. But even if it’s small, it’s pricey, according to Blasi. You can expect to shell out nothing shy of at least $20 to $25 here, even for some chocolate.

What to do instead: Venture to Notting Hill, where you can browse through antiques, scour boutiques and find something more original for a keepsake.

Why it’s overrated: Well, because unless you’re seeing an opera or other show, there’s no reason to go in. As Tatham explains, this theatre is still a working one, making it less than fascinating if that’s not your style.

What to do instead: You’ll still want to see this iconic Australia landmark, so take a ferry! For less than $10, you can sail from the port of Sydney to Manly Beach for a day of beers, surfing, and tanning – and get your shot of the Opera House on the way.

Why it’s overrated: Depending on when you visit – and the weather when you land – it might be impossible to see this renowned cave in person. But even when you get there, Blasi says you might feel unenthused. To get into the cave, you’re ushered on a very small boat, requiring you to duck (tall people, consider yourself warned!). Once inside, you’re only there for a minute before leaving – and the experience costs around $15.

What to do instead: Seeing the islands are a must, but venture to Hvar where you can have a cocktail at their beach club and watch the sunset over a small, quaint port.

Why it’s overrated: After waiting in a long, slow-moving line, you take a 70-second elevator ride to the top where you jockey for a view out of one of eight windows. “The joke around town is that no true Washingtonian has ever been to the top of the Washington Monument,” shares D.C. native Grace Spencer.

What to do instead: If learning more about America’s first president is your motivating factor, head to nearby Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home in Virginia. Or for stellar views of the Mall, including the Washington Monument, try the POV rooftop bar at the W Washington D.C. Hotel.

Why it’s overrated: It’s not that it isn’t an interesting landmark to see, but for Paul McGrady – who is from Ireland – it’s not an authentic experience. Though plenty of tours will make sure you stop by this shiny rock that is said to “give you the gifts of the gods” – McGrady says he doesn’t know a single local who has visited the stone.

What to do instead: Instead, visit Kerry – or take the route of the Ring of Kerry – to see genuine Irish towns firsthand, complete with plenty of beers.

Why it’s overrated: This city by the bay has plenty of sights, foods, and experiences, but one that traveller Jordan Malcolm says to skip is Fisherman’s Wharf. While, sure, you can see sea lions lounging around in the sun, everything else feels like a tourist trap. With chain stores, overpriced lunches and plenty of folks trying to sell you something, Malcolm says it wasn’t worth the hassle.

What to do instead: To see the wharf from afar without the lacklustre shopping and food, rent bikes and go across the Golden Gate Bridge. Or, if you want to see Fisherman’s Wharf briefly, head there to catch a ferry to Alcatraz, which Malcolm named the highlight of his trip.

Why it’s overrated: Google “Kyoto” and you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the number of temples and picture-perfect gardens in this region of Japan. One of the most popular is Arashiyama Bamboos Gardens, where tourists flock to see the sun shining through the bamboo groves – and of course, to feed the native monkeys. Travel photographer Emily Mitnick says while pretty, the vast amount of tourists makes it impossible to enjoy the serenity without being smacked with a selfie stick.

What to do instead: If you want to see the bamboo gardens, Mitnick says to head in the wee hours of the morning, pre-sunrise to beat the traffic. Or, for another experience that’s just as pretty and less crowded, consider Kodai-ji Temple as an alternative.

Why it’s overrated: Though the option of getting a selfie with a flamingo sounds Insta-worthy, traveller Chanel Stoyle says you might leave feeling less than dazzled. Pretty in person, but sad to witness, Stoyle explains many of the flamingos have clipped wings, making it impossible for them to leave or fly.

What to do instead: Equally as beautiful – and free of cruelty – is Eagle Beach, according to Stoyle.

Why it’s overrated: As one of those countries that so many work hard to see, Cuba is a prime tourist spot. But if you’re venturing here, Rousseau says to skip Varadero. Not only does she say the food is less than imaginative, she explains it’s also full of tourist and gimmicky-shops, none of which give you a glimpse into this unique culture.

What to do instead: If you’re making the journey, Havana is a must, according to Rousseau. Here, she says you can interact with locals, sample the coffee and cigars, and actually get to know this spot on the map.

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Source: RD.com