Are you planning a European getaway, but want to avoid as many tourist traps as possible? In this slideshow, Luc van Hecke explains how you can do exactly that.

1. THE 10 WORST
TOURIST TRAPS IN
EUROPE
Luc Van Hecke

2. As we get further into the summer season, more and
more people are flocking to Europe to enjoy a
lengthy vacation packed with sightseeing, shopping,
and relaxation. However, if you are looking to get
the full European experience without the crowds or
risk of being overcharged, consider avoiding the 10
worst tourist traps on the continent.

3. BUCKINGHAM
PALACE
Buckingham Palace has
served at the home of the
British Royal Family since
1705. However, there is
nothing riveting about the
property itself. Truthfully,
many who visit the palace
say the most interesting
sight is the fence that lines
the perimeter. Perhaps you
should save yourself the
trouble and choose to tour a
different landmark instead.

4. THE SPANISH
STEPS
Granted, there is rich history
in every corner of Rome.
However, if you are going to
spend any time at a given
tourist trap, make it worth
your while by making the trek
to the Trevi Fountain, the
Colosseum, or Vatican City. At
least you will see and
experience more than just a
crowded set of stairs.

5. JET D'EAU
Although the Jet D'Eau is Geneva's most famous
landmark -- and a beautiful one at that -- it is
truly nothing more than a fountain that you cannot
even walk near. So, rather than wasting time
pushing through crowds of tourists, opt to view the
spectacle from afar -- preferably as you are en
route to another landmark.

6. GRAND
BAZAAR
It would be wise of you
to visit the Grand Bazaar
in Istanbul for the
experience, rather than
actually purchasing
items. Take a moment to
look around (if it is not
too crowded), then buy
whatever knick knacks
caught your eye outside
of the bazaar -- the
prices are cheaper and
the merchants less
overbearing.

7. Granted, the Mona Lisa is one of the most
well-known and revered pieces of art in
the world. However, it is a little taxing to
stand in line for hours, attempt to
navigate the confusing Louvre, and elbow
your way through a crowd for the sake of
taking a photo of a painting. Consider
visiting during slower hours or eliminating
this item from your itinerary altogether.
THE MONA
LISA

8. LEANING TOWER
OF PISA
Although watching gaggles
of tourists take photos of
themselves "holding up the
tower" can be amusing, that
is all there really is to do at
the Leaning Tower. Make the
most of your time in Italy by
seeing a more remarkable
landmark.

9. THE MOULIN
ROUGE
Although this cabaret
inspired the blockbuster
movie that shared its
name, there is nothing
glamorous about the
Moulin Rouge in the 21st
century. In fact, its seedy
atmosphere is avoided by
locals altogether,
meaning the place is
packed with tourists.

10. LA RAMBLA
This tree-lined boulevard may seem beautiful in
photos, but it is a rather disappointing sight in
person. This is because La Rambla has been
infiltrated by merchants who try to swindle tourists
and restauranteurs who promise authentic Spanish
food. Avoid this area at all costs, especially at
night.

11. CHECKPOINT
CHARLIE
This fake US Army
checkpoint in Berlin is a
painfully obvious ploy
meant to squeeze money
out of tourists. Inside the
checkpoint stand two
actors, dressed in army
uniforms, who are willing
to take photos with
tourists -- for a fee, of
course. Do yourself a
favor and just avoid this
tacky attraction.

12. CAFÉ CENTRAL
Although this café is filled
with rich history, it is also
jam-packed with tourists.
Unless you desire to line
up for hours, elbow your
way inside, and be
overcharged to sip coffee
where Trotsky played
chess, it would be wise to
avoid this location
entirely.

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