15 European Tourist Traps That Are Truly Worth Seeing

Steve Cummings

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Because Europe is so well-traveled, everyone seems to know what the best things to do are. However, this level of knowledge means that most travelers have the same spots on their lists whenever they go to these popular spots. Despite this, there are some places that are considered “tourist traps” that are genuinely worth seeing. Don’t skip over these 15 European sites just because they are “tourist traps.” 

1. The Eiffel Tower – Paris, France 

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Easily one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone headed to Paris. Set up for the 1889’s World Fair and never taken down, the Eiffel Tower has become a symbol of France around the globe. There are always crowds around this landmark, but that doesn’t mean it’s worth skipping out on. If you want the full experience, plan to go all the way to the top for some of the best views in all of Paris! 

2. La Sagrada Familia – Barcelona, Spain

Sagrada Família, Barcelona
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With over 140 years of construction contributing to its beauty, La Sagrada Familia is one of the top attractions in Barcelona. This iconic church has a mix of several styles, from Gothic Revival and Art Nouveau all the way to the Modernista aesthetic. This location receives tons of visitors, since it is one of the masterpieces of noted architect Antoni Gaudí. We definitely recommend that you buy timed tickets for this popular attraction to cut down on the wait time. La Sagrada Familia is definitely worth braving the crowds. 

3. The Louvre Museum – Paris, France

Musee du Louvre
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This famous Parisian art museum houses some of the most notable pieces of art from around the world. From da Vinci’s Mona Lisa to Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, the Louvre has plenty of reasons to attract visitors. Because of this, basically every tourist in Paris will go through the Louvre. While you’ll definitely have to contend with crowds, especially around the Mona Lisa, it is worth it to see the holdings in this iconic museum. 

4. The Colosseum – Rome, Italy 

Colosseum in Rome, Italy. Ancient Roman Colosseum is one of main tourist attractions in Europe. People visit famous Colosseum in Roma city center. Scenic nice view, photo of Colosseum ruins in summer
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Standing at nearly 2,000 years old, the Colosseum is a piece of living history in the heart of Rome. This archeological site was a place of great importance to the ancient Romans, hosting grand events like gladiator fights. Despite damage to the structure, it can still be toured, even with access to the underground portions. In fact, it’s so popular that over seven million people go through the Colosseum every year. Despite these crowds, it is worth it to see this unique piece of history! 

5. La Rambla – Barcelona, Spain

La Rambla
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Going to La Rambla is one of the things you must do on any trip to Barcelona! This bustling boulevard has been central to Catalonia for decades. It is lined with historic buildings, cultural attractions, street performances, and markets, so there is something for everyone. As a thoroughfare of Barcelona, it is full of tourists. hHowever, it still has an authentic community flair, which shouldn’t be missed. 

6. Prague Castle – Prague, Czech Republic 

Prague Castle
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You’d be hard-pressed to find a more iconic building in the city of Prague than Prague Castle! This enormous castle, which towers over the city, used to be home to a host of royalty. Established in the 9th century, it has seen the march of history through Prague. Since it is such an important historical landmark, it does receive many tourists every day. However, the experience is absolutely worth it! 

7. The Vatican Museums – Vatican City, Rome

The Vatican Museums
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If you’ve made your way to the Vatican, you can’t skip out on the Vatican Museums just because they’re full of other tourists. The Vatican Museums, located in Vatican City, house some of the most notable pieces of art on the planet. From Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel to the famous Pietà sculpture, every turn has an artist’s dream. With tons of history and art to explore, this is an absolute must-see. 

8. Palace of Versailles – Versailles, France 

Palace of Versailles
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Whether you are a history lover or not, when in France, you must visit the Palace of Versailles. This gorgeous palace used to be a place of residence for French royalty, and it has all the royal trappings you’d expect, from beautiful art to stunning architecture. While you will see plenty of other tourists (only the Eiffel Tower receives more tourists in France), this stunning palace is worth all the hassle! 

9. The Trevi Fountain – Rome, Italy 

Trevi Fountain
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Maybe you’re a fan of Roman history or perhaps you’ve seen a famous movie that this fountain appears in. No matter how you come to know the Trevi Fountain, most travelers have heard of it. Located centrally in Rome, the Trevi fountain brings the beauty of Roman artistry into the modern day, married with Baroque details. Don’t let the crowds scare you off! The Trevi Fountain is a must-see! 

10. The Old City – Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik Croatia
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Throughout the world, the Old Town of Dubrovnik in Croatia is known for its medieval charm, architecture, and history. As the modern city grew around it, the Old City retained its charm, with winding streets, lively markets, and charming businesses. Beyond wandering the streets, you can climb onto the city walls to appreciate views of the city, as well as the Adriatic Sea. No matter what you do in the Old City, make sure you visit it while in Croatia. It’s definitely worth it! 

11. Stonehenge – Wiltshire, UK 

Stonehenge
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One of the best examples of unknown, ancient history, Stonehenge receives lots of visitors on a daily basis. Built in the Neolithic age by ancient people of unknown origin or background, this site has stumped historians for centuries. In fact, the original purpose of the site is still unknown. Although you likely won’t get to see it by yourself, you should make time to visit Stonehenge if you’re near Wiltshire! 

12. Buckingham Palace – London, UK 

Buckingham Palace
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Known around the globe for its historical significance and the famous changing of the guard ceremony, Buckingham Palace is a notable site in London. Buckingham Palace is not only one of the most important government sites in the country, but it also houses the Queen’s Gallery, a stunning garden, and plenty of history. Many tourists go just to see the iconic Buckingham Palace guards and the changing of the guard ceremony, an authentic, military ceremony that has been happening for hundreds of years. 

13. Leaning Tower of Pisa – Pisa, Italy 

The Leaning Tower of Pisa
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You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn’t seen a photo of someone pretending to hold up the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Because of this worldwide fame, the Leaning Tower of Pisa has become a tourist trap in Italy. If you can get past the swarms of people pretending to hold up the leaning tower, it is a really interesting architectural landmark. Beyond that, you’ll find other Roman history spots in Pisa which are worth the visit on their own. 

14. Tower of London – London, UK 

Tower of London
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Although the Tower of London is in every tourism book, it is definitely worth a visit. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Tower of London has a lot of history to offer. Through its years, the Tower of London has been a zoo, palace, prison, and fortress, so it has plenty of stories to tell. It even currently hosts the crown jewels, which visitors can see. Despite the higher price tag and the crowds, the Tower of London is definitely worth a visit for anyone pulling through London. 

15. Van Gogh Museum – Amsterdam, Netherlands  

Crowd looking at Vincent Van Gogh painting
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With a name like Van Gogh, it’s no wonder this museum in Amsterdam is so popular. It holds the most expansive collection of Van Gogh art in the entire world, housing famous works such as the Almond Blossoms, the Potato Eaters, and Sunflowers. In fact, the museum is so popular that selling false Van Gogh Museum tickets is a scam in the area. If you appreciate art, you can’t skip out on the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. 

Don’t Miss Out on These European Tourist Traps that are Actually Worth It 

Although it is easy to discount some of the most popular spots in Europe, some of these “tourist traps” are actually worth visiting! When you go all the way to Europe, don’t miss out on these popular spots. Sometimes it’s worth contending with the crowds to see the sights, and these iconic locations are certainly worth it.  

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