17 Beloved Tourist Attractions That Are Lame in Real Life

It’s disappointing to be so excited to see a certain place or monument in your travels, only to get there and… well, let’s just say, it’s less than thrilling. Some of these spots just don’t live up to the hype, or the crowds and admission fees make them somehow seem less magical. We’re not telling you not to go to these places — just to lower your expectations. Here are some of the top destinations that seem super exciting, but are sort of a let-down.

The-Leaning-Tower-of-PisaDarios / Shutterstock

The Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy

It’s an icon of Italy, and if you’re passing by, you should probably stop and get the requisite shot of you trying to “push” the tower back up (just like 300 other tourists are doing at any given time). The Leaning Tower of Pisa is much smaller than it looks in pictures, and while its architecture is pretty, the church it stands next to is actually just as impressive — and it’s still upright.

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For budget-minded travelers in search of a cheap place to stay, hostels can be the perfect option. Generally, hostels offer much better value than hotels and short-term apartment rentals. Because less money is spent on accommodations, it allows globetrotters to designate a larger portion of their budget to good food and sightseeing activities instead.

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If you’re a budget-minded backpacker interested in meeting fellow travelers along the way, hostels are an exceptional alternative. Intimate, community-minded, and affordable, hostels have exploded in popularity and really come a long way. From shared open-concept spaces to private ensuites, it’s easy to find a mix of both communal and secluded accommodations.

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