The Colosseum tops TripAdvisor’s list of most popular travel experiences in 2019
European landmarks dominate TripAdvisor’s list of most popular travel experiences of 2019, with Rome’s Colosseum topping the ranking for the second year in a row. The famed arena was closely followed by the Louvre Museum in Paris, and the Vatican in Rome on the list of can’t miss sites for travelers.
While European attractions dominated the top ten, two new American destinations made this year’s list in addition to the Statue of Liberty: New Orleans’ French Quarter and the Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower came in at number seven and nine, respectively. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, ranked number 7 last year, did not make this year’s global top ten.
“Iconic and historic sites from around the world will always be popular destinations for travelers, but they’re popular for a reason,” said Laurel Greatrix, a TripAdvisor spokesperson. “These are some of the most historic and memorable sites in the world. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there are plenty of interesting ways to see these sites, like an underground tour of the Colosseum, a family treasure hunt at the Louvre, or even a prime view of the Pope’s weekly address.”
Here are the top 10 TripAdvisor most popular experiences for 2019:
1. The Colosseum, Rome
Built to hold more than 50,000 spectators, this former gladiator arena is a must-see on any trip to Rome. Book a skip-the-line ticket to experience Ancient Rome and the Colosseum on this half-day walking tour, or, for a behind the scenes experience, try an underground tour to gain access to restricted parts of the Colosseum visitors can’t normally enter.
2. The Louvre, Paris
Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is considered the world’s greatest art museum with an unparalleled collection of items covering the full spectrum of art through the ages. Bypass the crowds on a skip-the-Line walking tour to some of the museum’s most iconic works, or check out the Mona Lisa at closing time. For a tour with a twist, explore the museum with a family treasure hunt or a murder and mystery experience.
3. The Vatican
Visit the home of the Pope and the vast complex of museums that chronicle the history and accomplishments of mankind over the last 2000 years. Spend more time admiring the historic artwork and less time waiting with a skip-the-line entry ticket that also offers a guided tour option. Or if it’s the Pope you want to see, guarantee your entry to the weekly Papal audience and enjoy a close-up encounter with one of the world’s most prominent religious figures.
4. The Statue of Liberty, New York
A gift of friendship from France to the United States, the Statue of Liberty has become a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. Visit this iconic monument on an early-access small-group tour that takes travelers to the Statue and Ellis Island. Or, admire its beauty from the water with a 1-hour boat cruise that offers unparalleled views of city skylines and other landmarks.
5. The Eiffel Tower, Paris
Travelers around the world flock to Paris to see the iconic Eiffel Tower with their own eyes. Experience the magic of the ‘City of Lights’ with a night tour of the Eiffel Tower where you’ll see an unforgettable panorama of twinkling Paris at night. If you’d rather take in the view during the day, bypass the long queues and head straight to the second-viewing platform with this priority summit access pass.
6. Sagrada Familia, Barcelona
This unfinished Roman Catholic basilica is perhaps Gaudi’s best work. Construction on this basilica started in 1882, and while it’s still yet to be completed, this is one spot no traveler to Barcelona will miss. Its popularity among travelers means there’s always long queues, so plan ahead and book a fast track guided tour or one with optional tower entry to breeze your way to the front.
7. French Quarter, New Orleans
As the heart and cultural center of New Orleans, the French Quarter is a must-see for its rich history and lively nightlife. Foodies won’t want to miss the small-group walking tour that ends at the legendary Café du Monde. Or, discover the neighborhood’s bawdy side with a salacious history tour, capped off with a traditional burlesque performance.
8. Anne Frank House, Amsterdam
A powerful and emotional experience for people from all over the world, the Anne Frank House is a must-see for travelers visiting Amsterdam. However you choose to experience this historic landmark – whether it be via a walking tour that takes you past the house, and follows her path through the city’s the Jewish Quarter, or a private guided tour that visits several Jewish landmarks through Amsterdam – be sure to plan ahead and book early (note: entrance to Anne Frank not included).
9. Willis Tower, Chicago
No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Take your visit to another level with a Skydeck dinner where you’ll enjoy an unforgettable sky-high meal of Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza 103 stories up. To make the most of your trip to the windy city, try the Go Chicago Explorer Pass that provides access to 3-5 activities of your choosing such as the Skydeck, Field Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo and more.
10. Piazza San Marco, Venice
Called “the drawing room of Europe” by Napoleon, St. Mark’s Square is the largest square in Venice known for centuries as a popular meeting destination. Experience its breathtaking beauty with a skip-the-line tour of the square’s two star attractions – Palazzo Ducale and Basilica of San Marco – or avoid the crowds all together with an after-hours tour.
