Why Rick Steves Recommends Some Of Europe's Most Clichéd Attractions Despite The Crowds
Like many frequent travelers, Rick Steves is of the opinion that some of the best travel experiences occur when you venture off the beaten path and explore places that fall outside of the usual tourist circuit. "Visit less-well-known destinations," he advised on his website. "Europe away from the train tracks is less expensive and feels more peaceful and relaxed."
It's a good idea to ensure that your travel itinerary includes some hidden gems, otherwise you may begin to feel overwhelmed by the crowds. Plus, the "touristy" vibe at some of the top tourist destinations just doesn't feel authentic. That being said, there are a few super popular tourist hotspots that no one should skip during a trip to Europe. Even Steves agrees it's worth waiting in line to climb the stairs of the Eiffel Tower.
Steves visited Europe for the first time as a young teenager with his family, and the trip would forever shape his life and career. He went on to build a thriving business writing bestselling guidebooks. He hosted a popular travel-themed TV show and takes thousands of travelers to Europe each year on group tours. These days, he's based in the United States but still spends several months out of each year traveling Europe. After spending decades traveling the world, he's practically seen it all. He acknowledges that popular tourist attractions can be cliché, but he also believes some of them are still worth visiting.
Don't skip visiting world-renowned landmarks just because they're tourist attractions
If you plan your entire trip around avoiding crowds and dodging tourist attractions, you're going to miss out on some of Europe's most wonderful experiences. You might think it's basic to visit certain landmarks, but keep in mind that there's a reason why they're world famous.
You can want to experience Paris like a Parisian and also feel excited to visit the Eiffel Tower, which Rick Steves called a "once-in-a-lifetime, I've-been-there experience," on his website. "Making the trip gives you membership in the exclusive society of the quarter of a billion other humans who've been there. The tower may be a cliché, but it's also a thrill. You'll feel proud you made it so high," Steves wrote.
I'd have to agree. Climbing the stairs to the top with my mom during our first trip to Paris remains one of my most cherished travel memories. After a long day of sightseeing in the rain, the sun peeked out and we witnessed an epic rainbow. We watched the sunset and the lights turn on all over the city. It was pure magic.
Steves advises making an advanced reservation when visiting popular tourist hot spots so that you can avoid the long lines. The same goes for other iconic spots like the Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, and Stonehenge in the United Kingdom. They're all touristy, but they're all worth it. If you're hoping to avoid bustling crowds, arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can even book after-hours experiences with a small group.
Some touristy activities may seem clichè but they're rooted in tradition
Sometimes it seems like performative cultural displays are little more than a way to make money off of curious tourists. Rick Steves points to the people dressed up in gladiator costumes at the Colosseum who charge tourists big bucks for photos. While there are certainly some insipid tourist traps out there, Rick Steves says that "most European clichés" are firmly grounded in a genuine custom or cultural highlight (such as Scotland's Highland games, Venice's Carnevale, and Munich's Oktoberfest). Many are well worth your time. And smart travelers learn how to make the most of them."
Don't be afraid to indulge in a few stereotypical activities during your trip to Europe. Steves particularly enjoys teatime when he's visiting England. He says it just feels right, and that it can make you feel as though you're part of a special British tradition. The Brits really do love their tea. Collectively, they consume around 60 billion cups per year – so while it may feel "touristy" to visit a tea room when you're a tourist, it's also a great way to interact with locals when visiting London. Experiences like these help transform you into a "cultural chameleon," according to Steves.
"Every trip I make to Europe renews my belief that smart travelers can easily separate the worthy clichés from the tacky come-ons. Apply your travel skills wisely, and your sightseeing will be a happy part of your trip. In the end, it's what you bring home in your head and heart that will last a lifetime," wrote Steves.