Fascinating map reveals the most OVERPRICED tourist hotspots across the globe (and Harry Potter fans will be stunned)
- The map devised by SavingSpot listed the most overpriced hotspots across the globe according to visitors
- It analyzed the TripAdvisor reviews for iconic landmarks across 134 countries and all US states
- Take a look below to explore which popular tourist attractions were deemed to be the most overpriced
Have you ever wondered which tourist attractions you can afford to miss out on?
Well, a fascinating map devised by SavingSpot has listed out the most overpriced hotspots across the globe according to visitors.
It analyzed TripAdvisor reviews of iconic landmarks across 134 countries and all US states to reveal which ones were deemed to be overpriced – whether because of the entrance fee, cost of parking or food and drink onsite.
The data recorded the number of mentions of the word ‘expensive’ in feedback and topping the list with a staggering number of complaints was Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter in England.
But it was not alone with Canada’s CN Tower, America’s Empire State Building and Iceland’s Blue Lagoon all being named among the 20 worst value hotspots.
Take a look below to explore the other big names which were deemed the most overpriced.
This fascinating map, devised by SavingSpot, has listed out the most overpriced hotspots across the globe according to visitors
20. Tivoli Gardens, Denmark (2,156 mentions)
Tivoli Gardens, which claims to be the world’s second-oldest amusement park, is nestled in the heart of Copenhagen.
Established in 1843, it offers visitors ‘fun rides, scenic settings, an exciting entertainment program and delicious food experiences.’
But the experience comes at a cost – particularly for large groups.
For example, entrance on a Saturday or Sunday for all guests over the age of eight is $23 with an unlimited ride pass being $42 per person, which can soon add up for big families.
Tivoli Gardens, which claims to be the world’s second-oldest amusement park having been established in 1843, is nestled in the heart of Copenhagen
19. CN Tower, Canada (2,241 mentions)
Canada’s CN Tower, which stands at a height of 553.33 meters, is an instantly recognizable landmark that dominates the skyline.
Having opened in 1974, it has a whole range of features that keep guests coming back for more including the SkyPod observation deck, daring ‘edge walk’ and lavish 360 restaurant.
Yet, it still failed to prove its worth among thousands of visitors.
General admission tickets bought in advance cost adults $31, the price for seniors – as well as those aged six to 13 – is $21, and kids aged three to five can get in for $10.
Canada’s CN Tower, which stands at a height of 553.33 meters, is an instantly recognizable landmark that dominates the skyline
18. Chester Zoo, England (2,251 mentions)
England’s Chester Zoo, which sprawls across 128 acres and is home to more than 27,000 animals, claims to be the most visited in the UK with a staggering two million guests every year.
It prides itself on being a ‘conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction.’
But its good intentions are seemingly still not enough to save it from claims that it is overpriced.
Entrance cost varies depending on the day but generally admission will se visitors back $30 per adult and $25 per child.
England’s Chester Zoo, which claims to be the most visited in the UK, sprawls across 128 acres and is home to more than 27,000 animals
17. Tower of London, England (2,394 mentions)
The Tower of London was inscribed onto the World Heritage List in 1988.
It is famously home to an unkindness of ravens as well as the Crown Jewels – continuing a long tradition of storing precious objects at the site.
However, even the world-famous collection comprising of 23,578 gemstones could not dazzle all visitors.
Guests can explore the iconic structure for $41 per adult and $21 per child aged between five and 15.
The Tower of London, which was inscribed onto the World Heritage List in 1988, is famously home to an unkindness of ravens as well as the Crown Jewels
16. Piazza San Marco, Italy (2,512 mentions)
Piazza San Marco is Venice’s main public square – boasting famous buildings such as St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
It was first established in the ninth century with Napoleon once branding it as ‘the world’s most beautiful drawing room.’
Despite it being free to enter the square itself, it is famous for stinging foreign tourists with its hefty costs – particularly at local eateries.
One previous visitor was stunned at being charged $45 for two cups of coffee and two bottles of water as another holidaymaker complained to the mayor after being charged $564 for a lobster lunch.
Piazza San Marco is Venice’s main public square – boasting famous buildings such as St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace
15. Discovery Cove, USA (2,526 mentions)
America’s Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort in Florida which claims to offer visitors ‘one-of-a-kind opportunities.’
These include the chance to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish and handfeed hundreds of exotic birds.
The all-inclusive package also features prepared breakfast and gourmet lunch as well as endless snacks and beverages.
But many clapped back and said that the experience is still not value for money particularly as day packages cost around $219.20 for all guests over the age of three.
America’s Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive day resort in Florida which claims to offer visitors ‘one-of-a-kind opportunities’ including the chance to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish and handfeed hundreds of exotic birds
14. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland (2,693 mentions)
Edinburgh Castle proudly describes itself as being ‘one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe’ and boasts a rich history which includes being a royal residence, military garrison, prison and even a fortress.
Its military potential was identified from as early as the Iron Age when a hill fort was erected to capitalize on the strategic advantage of having a sweeping view of the landscape.
The castle also once acted as a royal treasury – where the nation’s records and riches were kept along with treasures from around the world – including relics of Robert the Bruce.
But its impressive heritage was not enough to convince visitors that it was worth the standard admission price which currently stands at $24 for adults and at $14 for kids aged between seven and 15 years old.
Edinburgh Castle proudly describes itself as being ‘one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe’ and has a rich history that includes being a royal residence, military garrison, prison and even a fortress
13. Siam Park, Spain (2,745 mentions)
Spain’s Siam Park describes itself as a ‘captivating paradise’ that ‘offers thrilling attractions, serene landscapes, and authentic architectural wonders.’
The popular tourist hotspot, which is inspired by Thailand, has been named the number one water park in the world nine times in a row.
But it seems as though Siam Park has tried to capitalize on its impressive accolades by hiking up the prices.
Adult tickets are $44 for the day with kids over the age of two getting in for $32.
Spain’s Siam Park describes itself as a ‘captivating paradise’ that ‘offers thrilling attractions, serene landscapes, and authentic architectural wonders’
12. Eden Project, England (2,813 mentions)
The Cornwall-based Eden Project is instantly identifiable from its series of imposing covered Biomes – which are areas characterized by the vegetation, soil, climate and wildlife within.
The Rainforest dome is described as ‘the gleaming green jewel in the crown’ at the site with the Mediterranean Biome also offering visitors the chance to ‘immerse yourself in the calm fragrance.’
But visitors struggled to keep their cool after the offerings failed to match the cost of tickets.
Adults must pay up to $47 for general admission with children aged between five and 16 costing $15.
The Cornwall-based Eden Project is instantly identifiable from its series of imposing covered Biomes – which are areas characterized by the vegetation, soil, climate and wildlife within
11. Alton Towers Theme Park, England (2,828 mentions)
Inspired by Disneyland, Alton Towers Theme Park first opened its doors in 1980 – and has gone from strength to strength ever since.
It now spans across more than 550 acres of land in central Staffordshire and is home to 40 rides and attractions for guests of all ages.
The site promises to have features for everyone, ‘whether you’re after pure adrenalin-pumping experiences or family fun.’
Yet, nearly 3,000 visitors complained at it being overpriced with day tickets for adults and children over three at $83 if bought on the day or $43 if purchased in advance.
Inspired by Disneyland, Alton Towers Theme Park first opened its doors in 1980 – and has gone from strength to strength ever since
10. Empire State Building, USA (3,056 mentions)
Construction of the Empire State Building began in 1930 and was completed in a record-breaking one year and 45 days.
When measuring to the very top of the antenna, it clocks in at a mighty 443 meters – making it the fourth tallest building in New York City, the sixth tallest in the United States, and the 43rd tallest tower in the world.
Dozens of famous faces have flocked to the landmark in the past including Pink, Alicia Keys, Machine Gun Kelly and Steve Carrell.
But the A-list appeal was not appreciated by everyone particularly with tickets to the main deck costing adults $44 and children $38.
When measuring to the very top of the antenna, the Empire State Building clocks in at a mighty 443 meters – making it the fourth tallest building in New York City, the sixth tallest in the United States, and the 43rd tallest tower in the world
9. Warwick Castle, England (3,067 mentions)
The fortified site was founded in Warwick, England, in by William the Conqueror during 1068 before the original wooden motte-and-bailey castle was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century.
It claims to offer ‘Britain’s ultimate historical experience for friends and family’ with key selling points including live jousting, the UK’s largest birds of prey show and seasonal shows for holidays like Halloween and Christmas.
But it has not been enough to convince everyone that it is value for money.
All visitors over the age of three will have to shell out $48 for a single day pass on the day or $32 in advance.
The fortified site was founded in Warwick, England, in by William the Conqueror during 1068 before the original wooden motte-and-bailey castle was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century
8. Magic Kingdom Park, USA (3,127 mentions)
The Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, Florida, is one of the most visited amusement parks in the world – with more than 17 million people attending in 2022.
The theme park consists of classic attractions, enchanting fireworks, musical parades and a whole host of Disney characters.
But it seems that many visitors to ‘the land where fantasy reigns’ were actually left in disbelief at the cost.
Day tickets for guests aged 10 and above start at a staggering $144.
The Magic Kingdom Park in Orlando, Florida, is one of the most visited amusement parks in the world – with more than 17 million people attending in 2022
7. Blue Lagoon, Iceland (3,139 mentions)
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland was founded in 1992 as ‘a place where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys.’
Nestled in the heart of a volcanic landscape, it was named one of 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic in 2012.
And visitors now flock in their droves to bathe in the waters but many believe that the price is a little steep for what is on offer.
The ‘comfort experience’ – which includes entrance and silica mud mask – is the cheapest, starting at $64 for visitors over 14 years old with prices shooting up depending on the day.
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland was founded in 1992 as ‘a place where the powers of geothermal seawater create transformational spa journeys’
6. Universal Studios Florida, USA (3,189 mentions)
Having opened in 1990, Universal Studios Florida features numerous rides, attractions and live shows that are primarily themed to movies, television, and other aspects of the entertainment industry.
But the despite the light-hearted family fun, not everyone has been convinced.
More than 3,000 reviews on TripAdvisor slammed the site as being expensive compared to what it offers its guests.
Prices vary depending on season but currently a one-day ticket for guests over 10 is $119 per day with kids aged three to nine costing $114.
Having opened in 1990, Universal Studios Florida features numerous rides, attractions and live shows that are primarily themed to movies, television, and other aspects of the entertainment industry
5. The View from The Shard, England (3,223 mentions)
Having opened in 2013, London’s highest viewing gallery can be found at The Shard – which measures 310 meters up to the very tip.
Visitors are whisked up to the observation deck on the 69th floor to enjoy ‘breathtaking’ panoramic views across the capital both day and night.
But despite being the tallest building in the United Kingdom as well as Western Europe, it failed to make a mark on many.
General entry will set guests back $40 – which thousands considered far too pricey for the iconic hotspot.
Having opened in 2013, London’s highest viewing gallery can be found at The Shard – which measures 310 meters up to the very tip
4. Burj Khalifa, United Arab Emirates (4,839 mentions)
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai earned the impressive accolade of being world’s tallest building after construction was completed in 2010.
Boasting more than 160 stories, it also holds the title for highest occupied floor in the world and tallest service elevator in the world.
However, nearly 5,000 visitors branded it as being overly expensive.
Tickets to the highest point in the skyscraper 585 meters above the ground – called The Lounge – will set visitors back a staggering $210.
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai earned the impressive accolade of being world’s tallest building after construction was completed in 2010
3. London Eye, England (5,066 mentions)
The London Eye, which is often referred to as the Millennium Wheel, welcomes more than three million visitors annually – making it the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom.
Located on the south bank of the River Thames, the cantilevered observation wheel stands at 135 meters tall and offers visitors the chance to see above the city in glass pods.
But, with the rotation on the London Eye lasting just 30 minutes and with most having to share pods with groups of other tourists, more than 5,000 were left feeling short-changed.
Tickets on the day are $43 for adults, $34 for those aged two to 15, and free for under twos.
The London Eye, which is often referred to as the Millennium Wheel, welcomes more than three million visitors annually – making it the most popular paid tourist attraction in the United Kingdom
2. LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, England (5,680 mentions)
The LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, which opened in 1996 and spans 151 acres, has been delicately crafted around the iconic toy brand.
It now comprises of more than 55 rides and attractions – many of which have been crreated from 80 million individual LEGO bricks.
But, despite the attention to detail, it has been named as the second most-overpriced attraction in the world.
Tickets cost $81 if bought on the day or $42 when purchased in advance.
The LEGOLAND Windsor Resort, which opened in 1996 and spans 151 acres, has been delicately crafted around the iconic toy brand
1. Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, England (8,283 mentions)
Despite some fierce competition, it was Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter that was branded as the most overpriced tourist attraction in the world.
The site offers visitors the chance to explore key locations from the film franchise including Hogwarts Great Hall, Forbidden Forest, Gringotts Wizarding Bank and Diagon Alley – to name just a few.
But more than 8,000 guests failed to see the magic thanks to the costly pricing.
Adult tickets for the studio tour cost $63 with kids tickets costing $49.
Despite some fierce competition, it was Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter that was branded as the most overpriced tourist attraction in the world
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