Some places are iconic for a reason. Others? Just plain overrated. In this 2025 guide, I break down the world’s 20 most visited tourist attractions and dig into whether they’re actually worth the trip—based on real traveler reviews, entry costs, what to expect, and nearby budget-friendly picks for food, stays, or eSIMs.
1. Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
Annual Visitors: 6.2 million
Entry Fee: €18.80 (~$20) for the summit
Sure, it’s touristy—but when it lights up at night, it’s pure magic. If you hate long lines, skip the summit and enjoy the view from Trocadéro or Montparnasse Tower. Best time? Just before sunset on a weekday.
Cheap Eat: Le Petit Cler – cozy French bistro
Stay: Hotel Darcet (~$120)
eSIM: Airalo France from $4.50
2. The Great Wall of China, Beijing Section
Annual Visitors: ~10 million
Entry Fee: ¥40–¥60 ($5–$8)
It’s jaw-dropping—but most people crowd into Badaling. Want peace and better views? Head to Mutianyu or Jinshanling early in the morning.
Cheap Eat: Lao Beijing Zhajiangmian
Stay: 365 Inn ($40–60)
eSIM: Nomad from $7
3. Colosseum, Rome, Italy
Annual Visitors: 7.6 million
Entry Fee: €16
It’s ancient, iconic, and often packed. Still, a guided tour really brings history to life. Don’t just go for photos—learn about it!
Cheap Eat: Pizzeria da Baffetto
Stay: The Beehive (~$85)
eSIM: Holafly from $19.99
4. Statue of Liberty, New York, USA
Annual Visitors: ~4.5 million
Entry Fee: $24.50
A symbol of freedom, yes—but the ferry queues and security can make it a drag. Try the Staten Island Ferry for a free (and still awesome) view.
Cheap Eat: Ess-a-Bagel, Joe’s Pizza
Stay: Pod 51 ($130+)
eSIM: T-Mobile eSIM from $10
If You’re Planning a trip to any of those attractions, you can find cheap flights on Google Flights
5. Machu Picchu, Peru
Annual Visitors: ~1.5 million
Entry Fee: ~$45
It’s not just ruins—it’s a spiritual experience. But altitude sickness is real, and the hike’s no joke. Stay in Aguas Calientes the night before, and take it slow.
Cheap Eat: Green Point (vegan fusion)
Stay: Supertramp Hostel (~$35)
eSIM: Airalo Peru from $9
6. Disneyland Paris, France
Annual Visitors: 15 million+
Entry Fee: From €56 (~$60)
If you love Disney, it’s worth it. But if you’re just tagging along, the crowds, cost, and wait times can feel draining. Arrive early, pack snacks.
Cheap Eat: Earl of Sandwich
Stay: Ibis Budget Marne-la-Vallée (~$85)
7. Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
Annual Visitors: ~6 million
Entry Fee: AED 169 (~$46)
You zoom up 148 floors in under a minute—and bam, the whole city’s under your feet. It’s flashy, quick, and pricey. Worth it once.
Cheap Eat: Al Mallah Dhiyafah – amazing shawarma
Stay: Citymax Hotel (~$55)
eSIM: Airalo UAE options
8. Louvre Museum, Paris, France
Annual Visitors: 9.6 million
Entry Fee: €17
Yes, the Mona Lisa is small and crowded—but the rest of the museum is mind-blowing. Don’t try to see it all. Pick a few areas and enjoy.
Cheap Eat: Le Comptoir du Louvre
9. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA
Annual Visitors: 12 million+
Entry Fee: Free (Boat tour ~$30)
It’s loud, misty, and powerful. But it’s surrounded by cheesy attractions. Go for the view, skip the haunted house.
Cheap Eat: The Flying Saucer diner
Stay: Days Inn by Wyndham (~$80)
10. Tokyo Disneyland, Japan
Annual Visitors: ~17 million
Entry Fee: ¥8,400 (~$55)
Clean, efficient, and full of charm. It’s Disney—but Japanese. Even the popcorn flavors are fun (matcha or soy sauce!). Bring cash and patience.
Cheap Eat: Sukiya (beef bowl)
11. Sydney Opera House, Australia
Annual Visitors: ~8 million
Entry Fee: Tour: AUD $43 (~$28 USD)
You don’t need to go inside to appreciate it. Just grab a coffee at Circular Quay and enjoy the view. The harbor is the real star.
Cheap Eat: Mamak (Malaysian street food)
Stay: Wake Up! Sydney Central (~$50)
12. Taj Mahal, India
Annual Visitors: 6.5 million
Entry Fee: ₹1,100 (~$13)
It looks like a dream—especially at sunrise. But expect crowds and tight security. Totally worth it if timed right.
Cheap Eat: Joney’s Place (local, fresh food)
Stay: Hotel Kamal (~$20)
13. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona, Spain
Annual Visitors: 4.7 million
Entry Fee: €26
Gaudí’s masterpiece isn’t done yet—and that’s part of the charm. The light through the stained glass will make you pause.
Cheap Eat: Bo de B (sandwiches)
14. Las Vegas Strip, USA
Annual Visitors: ~30 million
Entry Fee: Free (unless gambling!)
It’s lights, chaos, and spectacle. You don’t have to gamble to enjoy it—people-watching is an event by itself.
Cheap Eat: In-N-Out Burger off-strip
Stay: The LINQ Hotel (~$60 midweek)
15. Universal Studios, Orlando, USA
Annual Visitors: ~11 million
Entry Fee: ~$120/day
Expensive? Yup. Fun? Definitely. Go early, use the app for wait times, and head to Harry Potter first.
Cheap Eat: Miller’s Ale House
16. Petra, Jordan
Annual Visitors: ~1 million
Entry Fee: JD 50 (~$70)
Walking through the Siq and seeing Petra open up in front of you—it’s like stepping into a movie. Bring snacks and sunscreen.
Cheap Eat: My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant
Stay: Petra Gate Hostel (~$25)
17. Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey
Annual Visitors: ~15 million
Entry Fee: Free
It’s chaotic, colorful, and full of deals (and scams). Haggle respectfully, sip some tea, and don’t rush.
Cheap Eat: Şehzade Cağ Kebap
Stay: Cheers Hostel (~$30)
18. Acropolis, Athens, Greece
Annual Visitors: 3 million
Entry Fee: €20
There’s something powerful about standing among ancient stones with the city sprawling below you. But wear good shoes—it’s slippery!
Cheap Eat: Kostas Souvlaki
Stay: Pella Inn Hostel (~$30)
19. Tower of London, UK
Annual Visitors: 2.9 million
Entry Fee: £33.60 (~$42)
Packed with stories (and tourists). The Crown Jewels alone are worth it if you’re into history or sparkle.
Cheap Eat: Poppies Fish & Chips
20. Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Annual Visitors: 2 million+
Entry Fee: R$89 (~$18)
Fog can ruin the view, but when it’s clear—it’s unforgettable. Try going early or right before sunset.
Cheap Eat: Bar Urca (great view, cold beer)
Stay: Injoy Hostel (~$25)
✈️ Final Thoughts
Traveling to famous tourist attractions can be both magical and risky. The key? Do your homework, read real reviews, and always plan with your budget in mind.
Bookmark this list for your next trip, and don’t forget to choose the right eSIM too. Safe travels!
