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tourist trap

Definition of tourist trap

Examples of tourist trap in a sentence.

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tourist trap.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

1942, in the meaning defined above

Dictionary Entries Near tourist trap

tourist season

Cite this Entry

“Tourist trap.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tourist%20trap. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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tourist trap

• a place, as a restaurant, shop, or hotel, that exploits tourists by overcharging.

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Example sentences.

This strip is overpopulated with tourist traps, such as mini-golf courses, scooter rental spots, souvenir shops and eateries.

Self-awareness versus self-importance—that is the primary divide between a real steak shop and a tourist trap.

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• Travel Tips

What Qualifies as a Tourist Trap? Not Everyone Agrees

Is it simply something that is exclusively for tourists or is it something more sinister.

Published on 4/12/2024 at 3:08 PM

The term "tourist trap" has an automatic negative connotation—no one wants to be seen as someone who was vulnerable to a trick, something designed to lure visitors and the unwise. But, what exactly is a tourist trap? Some of them are actually pretty popular with tourists, while others—like Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco —are considered totally not worth the time.

And, whether you want to go to a tourist trap or not, a recent survey shows that 89% of Americans are still visiting them during their travels. Software company  PhotoAiD  recently surveyed 1,000 Americans to determine what the current consensus on tourist traps is, including what most travelers considered to be the features that constitute a tourist trap.

According to the survey, the top factors that lead to a place being a tourist trap, versus a tourist attraction are:

• above-average pricing (30%)
• amenities tailored for tourists (28%)
• lack of cultural authenticity (27%)

As you can see based on the fact that all those options got similar levels of support, no one is in total agreement here. But honestly, these are very good reasons for a place not to merit the time and resources to visit—especially the lack of cultural authenticity. But what is most shocking is that even though there's a pretty clear disdain for visiting these sorts of attractions, 44.48% of respondents shared that they'd visited tourist traps between two to three times in the last 24 months, and 29% of respondents had visited tourist traps five times in the last 24 months.

My big question? Why? Fortunately, survey respondents answered that question as well. Here are the reasons why people reported visiting overpriced attractions:

• 33.67% said family/friends wanted to go
• 19.29% said it was highly recommended in guides/reviews/on social media
• 18.17% said it was curiosity or personal interest
• 14.16% considered it a landmark or symbol of the destination
• 13.82% said it was a part of a tour package or itinerary

Unfortunately, these experiences didn’t usually turn out to be an exciting and unexpectedly awesome addition to their trip. The survey showed that 69.56% reported that visiting the tourist attraction resulted in diminished enjoyment or significantly diminished enjoyment, as shown in the graph below.

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Definition of tourist trap noun from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary

tourist trap

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How to Avoid Tourist Traps on Your Travels

A guide on how to truly immerse yourself in a new place..

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Tourist traps are everywhere tourists can be found, and they can ensnare us all. But what exactly is a tourist trap?

Illustration by Melanie Lambrick

Like many of you, I’ve been caught in the occasional “tourist trap” over the years. I’ve found myself waking up in a cookie-cutter hotel room, with a generic print of a local landmark over the bed, or on a street full of gift shops selling puntastic T-shirts. Then I ask myself, “How did I get here? Aren’t I a better traveler than this?”

Tourist traps are everywhere tourists can be found, and they can ensnare us all. But what exactly is a tourist trap? And how should we think about them?

What constitutes a tourist trap?

A tourist trap is, by definition, a place that attracts and exploits tourists. But Merriam-Webster doesn’t leave much room for nuance. After all, one person’s trap is another person’s treasure.

A tourist trap is often cast as the opposite of an “authentic” experience. It’s somewhere we skip if we’re looking for the “soul” of a destination. But what makes, say, visiting a hidden supper club in Hackney more true to London than watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace? Who’s to say what is truly “authentic,” anyway?

There’s also a distinction between a tourist hot spot and a tourist trap. Many hot spots—for example, the Eiffel Tower—are marvels of engineering, nature, or culture that are kept standing, alive, or protected for visitors. The trinket stalls that surround them, however, err on the side of traps.

Instead of asking how to avoid tourist traps, perhaps a better question is: How can travelers more deeply immerse themselves in a new city—to experience both its beloved landmarks and the places less familiar to the average visitor?

Seek out local experts

“Avoiding ‘inauthentic’ experiences requires research and advance planning,” says Lindsey Tramuta , a Paris-based writer who offers small group tours of the city. “However, it can be as simple as scoping out who the local, trustworthy voices are.”

She recommends reading the work of writers who live in the city you’re visiting, as well as following chefs or restaurant owners on social media.

Tune in to the local frequencies

Mary Rickard, a semi-retired journalist who leads walking tours of New Orleans through Context Travel , suggests tuning in to the local radio station and reading the newspapers to get primed before your trip. You’ll also find out about concerts, art exhibitions, and other community events.

In New Orleans, for example, musicians are often guests on WWOZ radio shows leading up to performances. Attend a gig and you might strike up a conversation that teaches you something new about the city and the people who live there.

Step away from the tour bus

Coach tours can play a valuable role in facilitating travel if you’re unable or unwilling to make your own way in unfamiliar territory. But renting a car, Rickard says, can offer “a more leisurely experience of less-visited sites and roadside restaurants.”

The same is true for other, more independent, forms of transportation—like walking, cycling, and taking public transit. If I’d done that in Marrakech a few years back, I’d have spent less time in my taxi driver’s cousin’s perfume shop.

Seek out new neighborhoods

A city’s heart may be found among its lesser known arteries. Joan Roca, CEO and founder of Essentialist , a private members’ service for travelers, recommends doing a little research in advance—but also, when you feel safe to do so, letting yourself go with the flow in the present.

“Take that map out, and make note of where the big attractions are and what is familiar to you,” he says. “Then look to the other spaces on the map. Perhaps it’s a green space . . . perhaps it’s a maze of streets away from the well-known areas that’s caught your eye.”

Consider when you travel

Meaningful interactions can be had at quieter times of day and year, as a dawn visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City with an infant once taught me. “Traveling in the low season,” Roca says, “will help avoid both tourists and traps alike.”

8 warning signs you’re about to visit a tourist trap

• When traveling to a new destination, you can easily end up at a tourist trap. But if you keep your eye out for a few red flags, you can avoid the tourists. 
• You need to avoid places that are popular on Instagram and have hashtags. 
• Long lines, crowded areas, and gift shops are also red flags you should look out for. 
• Visit INSIDER's homepage for more stories .

Merriam Webster defines a tourist trap as " a place that attracts and exploits tourists." It's easy to fall into a tourist trap while traveling .

When experiencing a new city, you can get drawn into famous landmarks, expensive restaurants, and crowded areas. Before long, you've wasted money and time at inauthentic and even overrated establishments. 

But there are ways to avoid these touristy spots by looking out for these red flags while traveling. 

If a landmark, restaurant, or even a city is overcrowded and filled with people, you've probably ended up at a tourist trap 

Elizabeth Becker, author of "Overbooked: The Global Business of Travel and Tourism," said a good rule of thumb is if "the crowds at the monuments or beaches resemble the hordes of Black Friday shoppers in the USA," then that should be a red flag. In fact, she refused to go to the temples at Angkor in Cambodia because the crowds ruined a place that was supposed to be sacred and holy.

If you're only staying around famous landmarks, then you're going to fall into tourist traps 

When visiting a new city, it's easy to get trapped at some of the biggest and most famous landmarks that everyone wants to see, and then you'll end up at touristy hotels and restaurants. 

"I always want to see the main tourist spot in a city, but never have that as my main reason for visiting," Katy Rebrovich, an agent at CIRE Travel , told INSIDER. "What is a trip to Rome without seeing the Colosseum, after all? But once you've seen it, get off the beaten track and really explore. In major tourist cities, you have to work for the secret spots, but it's worth it."

If a destination or landmark keeps popping up in your social media feeds, then it's probably for tourists

Whether it be pictures of people soaking in the  hot springs in Iceland or selfies at Chicago's Bean, we repeatedly see the same pictures on Instagram and Facebook from friends' travels. That should be a red flag. 

Related stories

"My least favorite part about an Insta-famous destination is the type of crowd it tends to attract," Christy Woodrow of Ordinary Traveler told INSIDER. "I have found people are often disrespectful, they don't bother learning any phrases of the local language, and they are only there to take a photo ... It's actually quite a different experience than a place that's gotten famous because of something other than Instagram."

Read more: 9 warning signs you're about to eat at a bad restaurant

Likewise, if the landmark or restaurant has its own hashtag, you should stay away 

"Anything that has become so popular that it has its own hashtag is a pretty blatant sign that you're about to walk into a tourist trap," Megan Jerrard, the avid traveler of Mapping Megan , told INSIDER. She said you should especially be aware of locations that have multiple hashtags, like the Eiffel Tower with its hashtags #EiffelTower, #EiffelToweratnight, and #EiffelTowerview.

"I'm not saying completely avoid these places, but just be realistic about the fact that you're going to stand in lines, possibly for hours, be pushing past a sea of girls in pretty dresses while their Insta husband takes photos from a million different angles, and have hawkers yelling at you to buy their #EiffelTower key chains," Jerrard said. 

If the location you're heading to has a gift shop, it's a tell-tale sign that it's a tourist trap

Restaurants like Planet Hollywood and Hard Rock Cafe are well-known tourist traps, and they both have expensive gift shops. Jerrard said you should stay away from these.

"If you can buy a replica of the landmark you're visiting on a key chain or immortalized in a snow globe, that's a pretty big red flag that it's going to be swarming with tourists," she told INSIDER. 

Similarly, if there are more t-shirt shops than local crafts in the town or city, you should reconsider your destination 

One of the best ways to experience a new culture is through their local crafts. But if you only see generic t-shirt shops selling shirts that are similar to "I Love NY," then you're in a tourist trap, Becker said. 

If blogs and travel guides say you should only visit at a certain time of the year, then it's probably a tourist destination 

Amy Brueckner of CIRE Travel agency said that places like Disney World and Cancun have specific times of year when they see a big influx of people. During those seasons, those places might be worth avoiding. Places that aren't tourist traps don't have a specific time of year that you should avoid. 

If a person is outside an establishment telling people to come inside, it's most likely a tourist trap

Some restaurants or entertainment spots have a person outside whose goal is to get people off the street and into the establishment. Brueckner said these people are called hawkers and should be avoided because the only people who would actually step inside are tourists. 

"If a restaurant is good, they don't need to beg people to eat there," she told INSIDER." I was in Seville, Spain, last week and had this experience walking down the main tourist street on the way to the cathedral. Waiters were out on the street trying to wave you in. Once off the main drag, however, it was a quieter experience and we found more authentic restaurants."

• 11 US attractions that tourists love but locals hate
• The worst tourist trap in every state
• 17 under-the-radar alternatives to major tourist destinations
• 16 places around the world that are being ruined by tourism

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• Main content

Definition of 'tourist trap'

Tourist trap in british english.

tourist trap in American English

Examples of 'tourist trap' in a sentence tourist trap, browse alphabetically tourist trap.

• tourist town
• tourist trade
• tourist traffic
• tourist trap
• tourist visa
• tourist visits
• tourist zone
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Meaning of tourist trap in English

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• be the armpit of something idiom
• inhospitably
• sausage machine
• the Black Hole of Calcutta
• what's the world coming to? idiom

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relating to the scientific study of animals, especially their structure

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• Plan Your Trip

What Are Tourist Traps

Published: November 19, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Leilah Coakley

• Travel Guide

Introduction

When planning a trip, one of the key considerations is how to make the most of your time and money. However, amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations, it’s important to be aware of the potential pitfalls that can turn your dream vacation into a disappointing experience. This is where the concept of “tourist traps” comes into play.

Tourist traps are typically places or attractions that are specifically designed to attract and take advantage of unsuspecting travelers. These are often characterized by inflated prices, overcrowding, and subpar experiences, all in the name of making a quick profit. While not all tourist attractions fall into this category, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs and learn how to identify and avoid them.

So, why do tourist traps exist? Well, with the rise of global tourism, there is a growing demand for unique and authentic experiences. Unfortunately, not all businesses and individuals are willing to provide these experiences genuinely. Instead, they opt for shortcuts and gimmicks to lure in tourists and extract as much money as possible.

That being said, it’s important to approach the concept of tourist traps with a balanced mindset. Not all attractions that are popular among tourists are necessarily traps. There are many renowned landmarks and attractions that are worth visiting and offer genuine experiences. The key is to be able to differentiate between what’s truly authentic and what’s just a facade.

Definition of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps can be defined as places, businesses, or attractions that specifically target tourists and aim to extract as much money as possible from them without providing genuine value in return. These traps often rely on deceptive marketing tactics, inflated prices, and subpar experiences to maximize profits.

One of the key characteristics of tourist traps is their ability to create a sense of urgency or exclusivity. This can be seen through limited-time offers, “one-time-only” deals, or claims of being a “must-see” attraction. These tactics play on the fear of missing out (FOMO) and often result in tourists hastily parting with their money, only to be left disappointed.

Another common trait of tourist traps is the manipulation of emotions. They are designed to evoke a sense of excitement, wonder, or even guilt in order to prompt travelers to spend more. For example, attractions that feature animal shows or interactions may tug at the heartstrings of animal lovers, leading them to pay exorbitant fees for a brief encounter.

It’s important to note that not all popular tourist attractions are traps. There are many genuine and worthwhile places to visit that attract large crowds of tourists for valid reasons. The distinction lies in the intention behind the attraction. A genuine tourist destination seeks to enhance the visitor experience and provide value, while a tourist trap aims to exploit the visitor’s lack of knowledge or vulnerability.

Tourist traps can manifest in various forms, such as overpriced restaurants in popular tourist areas, tacky souvenir shops, or even entire cities that have built their economy solely around tourism. These traps often prioritize quantity over quality, catering to the masses rather than offering an authentic and memorable experience.

Ultimately, the definition of a tourist trap is subjective and can vary from person to person. What one traveler may consider a trap, another may find enjoyable. It is important for travelers to be aware of the warning signs and make informed decisions when it comes to choosing their activities and spending their money.

Characteristics of Tourist Traps

Tourist traps share a number of common characteristics that distinguish them from authentic and worthwhile attractions. By understanding these characteristics, travelers can better identify and avoid falling into tourist traps.

1. Overpriced: One of the most tell-tale signs of a tourist trap is inflated prices. From overpriced food and drinks to exorbitant entry fees, tourist traps often capitalize on the fact that tourists may be willing to spend more without questioning the value they are receiving.

2. Crowded: Tourist traps tend to attract large crowds of tourists, which can lead to overcrowding. This not only diminishes the experience for visitors but also provides an opportunity for businesses to rush through services and cut corners.

3. Tacky and Generic: Many tourist traps feature generic or clichéd elements that lack authenticity. This can be seen in souvenir shops selling mass-produced knick-knacks, restaurants offering generic menus catered to international tastes, or attractions that rely heavily on gimmicks rather than genuine cultural or historical significance.

4. Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to target unsuspecting travelers. This can include pushy street vendors, constant advertising, or misleading information that creates a sense of urgency or exclusivity.

5. Lack of Local Presence: Authentic and worthwhile attractions often have a strong connection to the local culture and community. In contrast, tourist traps may lack any genuine local presence, as they are primarily geared towards extracting money from tourists rather than benefiting the local economy.

6. Limited or Poor Reviews: Researching customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into whether an attraction is a tourist trap. Negative reviews highlighting high prices, unfulfilled promises, or a lack of authenticity are warning signs to look out for.

7. Unforeseen Extra Charges: Tourist traps often use hidden fees or additional charges to increase their profits. These can take the form of mandatory service charges, unexpected taxes, or supplementary fees for essential amenities.

Recognizing these characteristics can help travelers make informed decisions and avoid falling into tourist traps. By seeking out authentic experiences that prioritize quality, uniqueness, and genuine cultural immersion, travelers can ensure a more enjoyable and fulfilling journey.

Common Tourist Traps Around the World

Tourist traps exist in various forms and destinations around the world. While it’s important to note that not all popular attractions are traps, there are some well-known spots that have gained a reputation for taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists. Here are a few common tourist traps to be aware of:

1. Times Square, New York City: While undoubtedly iconic, Times Square is notorious for its high prices and overcrowding. Visitors often find themselves bombarded with aggressive street vendors and inflated prices for food and souvenirs.

2. The Grand Bazaar, Istanbul: Considered one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, the Grand Bazaar can be overwhelming for tourists due to its maze-like layout and persistent salespeople. Bargaining is essential to avoid overpaying for items.

3. The Eiffel Tower, Paris: As one of the most visited landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower attracts large crowds year-round. Tourists should be cautious of unauthorized sellers or scammers offering “skip-the-line” tickets at inflated prices.

4. Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, Thailand: While the idea of a floating market sounds charming, the reality of Damnoen Saduak is often overcrowded with tourists and vendors selling overpriced souvenirs. For a more authentic experience, exploring smaller, lesser-known floating markets is recommended.

5. Fisherman’s Wharf, San Francisco: This popular tourist area is filled with souvenir shops, overpriced seafood restaurants, and gimmicky attractions. Visitors are advised to explore other neighborhoods in San Francisco for a more genuine local experience.

6. Pisa’s Leaning Tower, Italy: The Leaning Tower of Pisa is undoubtedly an iconic landmark, but it has also become synonymous with tourist traps. Overpriced restaurants, street vendors, and tacky souvenir shops surround the area, detracting from the historical significance of the tower.

7. Kuta Beach, Bali: Kuta Beach is a popular tourist spot known for its vibrant nightlife and beachfront resorts. However, it has also become a tourist trap with inflated prices, aggressive touts, and overcrowded beaches. Exploring other areas of Bali can provide a more authentic and peaceful experience.

While these examples highlight some well-known tourist traps, it’s important to remember that there are countless other destinations where tourist traps can be found. Doing thorough research, reading reviews, and seeking advice from locals or experienced travelers can help avoid falling into these traps and ensure a more enjoyable and authentic travel experience.

Impact of Tourist Traps on Local Culture and Economy

While tourism can bring many benefits to a destination, the presence of tourist traps can have negative impacts on both the local culture and economy. Understanding these impacts is crucial in order to foster sustainable and responsible travel practices.

One of the main concerns regarding tourist traps is the erosion of local culture. When tourist traps prioritize catering to the masses and meeting international expectations, they often neglect genuine cultural experiences. This can lead to the commodification and dilution of local traditions, as businesses prioritize profit over preserving and showcasing authentic cultural heritage.

Moreover, the over-commercialization of a destination due to tourist traps can lead to the displacement of local businesses. As large chains and international brands move in to cater to the tourist demand, local entrepreneurs and vendors are often pushed out. This not only diminishes the economic opportunities for locals but also contributes to the homogenization of the destination’s offerings, reducing its uniqueness and charm.

Furthermore, the presence of tourist traps can create a dependency on tourism as the sole source of income for a community or region. When the economy becomes overly reliant on tourism, it can be vulnerable to fluctuations and downturns in the industry. This can result in economic instability and lack of diversification, making the local community more susceptible to the negative impacts of crises such as natural disasters or global events.

Another consequence of tourist traps is the widening wealth gap between those who directly benefit from tourism and those who do not. In many cases, the profits generated by tourist traps do not trickle down to the local community, as they are often siphoned off by large corporations or outside investors. This inequality can lead to social tensions and resentment among local residents.

Moreover, the overcrowding caused by tourist traps can have negative environmental impacts. Ecologically sensitive areas can become degraded due to the influx of visitors, leading to pollution, habitat destruction, and strain on local resources such as water and energy.

To mitigate these negative impacts, it is important for tourists to be conscious of their choices and support local businesses and initiatives that promote sustainability and cultural preservation. Engaging in responsible tourism practices, such as staying in locally-owned accommodations, dining at local establishments, and participating in community-based tourism initiatives, can help ensure that the benefits of tourism are more evenly distributed and contribute to the long-term well-being of the destination and its inhabitants.

Tips to Avoid Falling into Tourist Traps

While it can be challenging to navigate the tourism landscape and identify tourist traps, there are several tips that can help travelers avoid falling into their traps and have a more authentic and fulfilling travel experience:

1. Do Your Research: Before visiting a destination, conduct thorough research about popular attractions and tourist areas. Read reviews, check forums, and consult travel blogs to get insights from other travelers about their experiences. Look for recommendations from locals or experienced travelers to find hidden gems off the beaten path.

2. Seek Local Advice: Locals are often the best source of information when it comes to avoiding tourist traps. Strike up conversations with locals, ask for recommendations, and seek their advice on where to go and what to avoid. They can provide valuable insights into authentic cultural experiences and steer you away from touristy areas.

3. Be Wary of Aggressive Marketing: Tourist traps often employ aggressive marketing tactics to lure in unsuspecting visitors. Be cautious of street vendors who are overly pushy, shops with flashy signs and exaggerated claims, or tour operators offering unrealistic deals. Take your time and make informed decisions rather than succumbing to high-pressure sales tactics.

4. Follow the Locals: Look for where the locals go. If you see a crowded restaurant or bustling market full of locals, chances are it’s an authentic spot worth exploring. Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat, drink, and shop, as they will guide you towards genuine local experiences.

5. Compare Prices: Tourist traps often overcharge for products and services. Compare prices at different establishments and ask locals for price estimates to ensure you’re not being ripped off. Avoid establishments that don’t display clear pricing or try to negotiate prices aggressively.

6. Avoid Tourist Hotspots during Peak Hours: Popular tourist attractions are often most crowded during peak hours. If possible, visit these attractions early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the crowds. This will allow you to have a more enjoyable experience without feeling overwhelmed.

7. Embrace Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences: Consider exploring lesser-known areas or pursuing alternative activities that are off the typical tourist radar. This can provide a more authentic and unique experience while minimizing the chances of falling into tourist traps.

8. Use Local Transportation: Instead of relying solely on tourist transport options, use local modes of transportation like buses, trains, or trams. This not only provides a more authentic experience but also helps support the local economy.

By following these tips, travelers can avoid falling into tourist traps and instead discover the authentic essence of a destination. Remember, the goal is to embrace cultural immersion, interact with the locals, and create meaningful memories that go beyond the clichés of mass tourism.

Tourist traps can pose a challenge for travelers seeking genuine and memorable experiences. It’s important to approach travel with a critical mindset, doing research, seeking local advice, and being aware of the warning signs that indicate a tourist trap. By avoiding these traps, travelers can support local businesses, preserve local culture, and have a more authentic travel experience.

While not all popular tourist attractions are traps, it’s essential to be mindful of inflated prices, generic experiences, aggressive marketing tactics, and overcrowding. By seeking out off-the-beaten-path destinations, engaging with the local community, and supporting sustainable tourism practices, travelers can make a positive impact and contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Remember, the true beauty of travel lies in exploring different cultures, connecting with people, and discovering hidden gems that offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of a destination. By avoiding tourist traps and seeking out authenticity, travelers can create cherished memories and contribute to sustainable and responsible tourism.

So, the next time you plan your trip, take the time to research, consult locals, and be discerning in your choices. By doing so, you can uncover the true essence of a place, support local communities, and make your journey a truly enriching and memorable experience.

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