10 Overcrowded Cities That Are Less Fun Than You Think

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Many wanderers have traveled to iconic cities at the top of their bucket lists. Millions each year are attracted to everything from famous landmarks to history and culture—But oftentimes, these places don’t quite measure up to that hype. From overcrowded streets to long lines and facing price hikes, what should be a dream vacation can be a bit of a headache.

Every city has its charm, but a few are best when you have a little space to breathe. Look closely at 10 cities that may not deliver the experience you expect when the crowds swell.

Venice

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There is no doubt that Venice’s canals and gondolas are charming, but there are a lot of people to contend with in the alleyways and everywhere else, plus everything is expensive. Peak season visiting can feel like trying to find your way through a maze of tourists and the romance of the place can get a little lost in the shuffle.

Paris

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Ah, Paris—the city of love—but during the high tourist season, that romantic stroll along the Seine can become slow shuffling behind crowds of selfie-takers. Long lines and packed streets can take some of the magic out of the Eiffel Tower, but it’s breathtaking.

Barcelona

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Barcelona’s mix of modernist architecture and Mediterranean vibes is captivating, but the sheer amount of visitors can sometimes make it hard to appreciate. Waiting in line to get into popular spots like Park Güell or La Sagrada Familia is a luxury you can’t afford.

Bangkok

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Known for its thunderous street life, ornate temples, and little ‘za, Bangkok will wear you out—If you’re elbow to elbow with other tourists in the Grand Palace or Chatuchak Market, the city’s bustling energy can quickly become exhausting.

Rome

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Visiting the Eternal City can be a battle for personal space, but it’s also a treasure trove of history. You may get lost in the crowds at the Colosseum and Vatican City, where crowds can be so dense that you spend more time waiting than exploring.

New York City

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New York City doesn’t sleep, and it doesn’t stop either. Times Square may prove to be a sensory overload more than anything else. Sometimes the sheer volume of people surrounding the same attractions can overshadow the city’s vibrant hustle.

Tokyo

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Tokyo offers an intriguing blend of modern innovation and traditional charm, though visiting during peak times can be overwhelming for even the most seasoned travelers. Shibuya Crossing gets so crowded that it may feel like a survival exercise rather than an enjoyable stroll.

Dubai

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There is little doubt that glittering skyline and all, a visit to Dubai is on many visitors’ lists, but the constant construction and the crowds in the tourist hotspots can take some of the gloss off. The high-rise buildings and crowded malls can feel like an exaggeration of the desert oasis vibe.

London

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A city steeped in history and culture, London can be a challenge to navigate if you don’t know where you’re going. Places such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London usually feel more like a jammed festival than a cultural outing.

Sydney

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Sydney’s Opera House and pretty beaches are stunning but draw huge crowds. Bondi Beach can be so crowded you feel like you’ve won the lottery when you find a spot to lay your towel. The crowds sometimes diminish the city’s charm.

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Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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