
When thinking about our dream destinations, most of us add exotic distant heavens and popular hotspots to our bucket lists. However, truth be told, not all of them are worth it. Today, we are flipping the script and giving you 15 destinations that you might want to reconsider.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

Imagine eagerly waiting to see this timeless tower, only to be reminded of a circus as soon as you get there. There are hundreds of people trying to snap the same exact “holding the tower” photo. Moreover, the area is packed with vendors selling tacky souvenirs. Trust me, the uniqueness wears off quickly.
Hollywood Walk of Fame, USA

You may think it is all glitz and glamor; however, the reality is more of a crowded sidewalk of tourists walking on top of stars’ names. Moreover, the unacceptable number of street vendors and noise ruin the Hollywood charm you may be hoping for. The surrounding streets can feel a bit commercial and lack the historic charm.
The Great Wall of China, China

Now, do not get me wrong, the Great Wall is impressive. But if you visit the popular heritage near Beijing, be prepared for a human traffic jam. You are better off exploring less crowded parts for a more calm experience. These popular areas often feature a lot of restoration, which might give you a less authentic feel of the ancient structure.
The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Many of us dream of seeing the pyramids, but the reality can be quite shocking. The entire area is packed with aggressive retailers, and you might even see litter lying around these ancient wonders. The reality is very different from the majestic photos you see in travel brochures.
Times Square, USA

Bright, loud, and always crowded – Times Square feels like one giant case of sensory overload thanks to all the billboards and noise. If you are looking for an authentic New York experience, there are several other neighborhoods that will give you a more genuine vibe of the city.
Venice, Italy

Ah, Venice. The city of canals and romance. But let’s be real, it’s also the city of overcrowding and overpriced everything. The narrow streets are filled with tourists, and the waterways often do not smell as lovely as you would imagine. Besides, the city is slowly sinking, so it will soon disappear anyway.
Mount Everest Base Camp, Nepal

For many of us, climbing to Everest base camp is like a beautiful adventure of a lifetime. However, the reality is far from the perfect wilderness experience. In fact, the area is so crowded that it resembles a small outdoor festival. Moreover, the hike itself is treacherous and dangerous, not to mention severe altitude sickness, which can spoil the journey.
Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Stonehenge is iconic, but when you get there, you will find you cannot even get close to the stones anymore. You will be walking around a rope barrier from a distance, trying to snap a photo without too many strangers in it. Stonehenge is located just beside a busy road, which ruins the ancient atmosphere.
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

These islands gained worldwide fame after The Beach, but now they are victims of their success. The beaches are often overcrowded with tourists, boats, and garbage. If you really want to go for a calm and serene beach, there are thousands of less crowded islands in Thailand, like the Monkey Islands.
The Little Mermaid Statue, Denmark

Although it is often thought to be one of the grand symbols of Copenhagen, its actual size might surprise you. The area around the statue can feel overcrowded and lose some of its charm due to the overwhelming tourist presence. It is located near a busy harbor that ruins the scenic setting you would expect.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is known for its luxury and modern buildings, but it can feel a bit soulless. It is like a city from the future but without much local charm or culture. Another aspect to keep in mind is that it is extremely hot, and everything is spread out, so you end up spending a lot of time in air-conditioned malls or taxis.
Loch Ness, Scotland

The mystical legend of Nessie, or the Loch Ness Monster, attracts tourists here, but let us face it: the chances of seeing something are almost zero. Yes, the lake is beautiful in its own way, but truth be told, it is just like other lakes. There are several other amazing places and lochs to explore in Scotland than this.
Bali, Indonesia

Bali is often seen as a tropical heaven, but parts of it have become overcrowded and commercialized. Places like Kuta are crowded with tourists, and the beaches are not as pristine as they used to be. Bali still has some pristine areas, although you will need to move away from the tourist path to get to them.
Chichen Itza, Mexico

Chichen Itza is proof of Mayan creativity but often loses its charm due to the crowds and numerous vendors. The historical magnificence is often overshadowed by the turmoil of market activity surrounding it. To explore Mayan civilization in a more peaceful setting, traveling to other sites such as Uxmal and Palenque can be a better alternative.
Santorini, Greece

Santorini is known for the most beautiful sunsets and the white-washed buildings surrounding the caldera; what often gets understated is how massively overcrowded it is. The narrow streets are filled with tourists, and prices for accommodation and food are often unbearably high. For real Greek island vibes, check out some of the less touristy islands, like Naxos or Paros.
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