Cheaper alternatives to the world's expensive tourist attractions

Swap this for that

Travelling can quickly become expensive, with flights, accommodation and meals all making a significant dent in your budget. The last thing you want after arriving at your destination is to be hit with hefty charges for visiting the attractions you’ve been eager to see. To help you save money without sacrificing experiences, we’ve highlighted some of the priciest tourist spots and suggested our top picks for free, yet equally amazing, alternatives.

Read on to discover the cheaper alternatives to popular tourist destinations... 

Swap: Statue of Liberty, New York City, New York, USA

For many visitors to New York City, seeing the Statue of Liberty is a highlight, and the best way to get close to this iconic monument is by purchasing a ticket through Statue City Cruises, the only company officially authorised by the National Park Service to provide ferry service to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. For around £20 ($25) per adult, a general admission ticket includes ferry rides to both islands, as well as entry to the Statue of Liberty Museum and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

For: Staten Island Ferry, New York City, New York, USA

The Staten Island Ferry offers a free and scenic ride across New York Harbor, providing stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline. It's a popular choice for both tourists and locals, and the ferry ride itself is completely free, making it an excellent way to see the city from the water without spending money.

Swap: Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE

Standing at a staggering 2,722 feet (828m) tall, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and its observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors offer sweeping vistas of Dubai. Those views come with a hefty price tag, though – standard tickets range from £36 to £52 ($46 to $66) depending on the time of day, with peak hours and visits to higher floors commanding even higher prices. While the tower's panoramic views are spectacular, the cost and often lengthy queues can make this experience one to miss, especially for budget-conscious travellers.

For: Dubai Frame, Dubai, UAE

For a more affordable alternative, consider visiting the Dubai Frame. Standing at 492 feet (150m), it’s not on the same scale as the Burj Khalifa but offers a unique perspective on the city by framing both the old and new sections of Dubai in one spectacular view. Tickets are much more budget-friendly, typically costing around £11 ($14), and include entry to an immersive museum that highlights Dubai’s transformation from a fishing village to a futuristic metropolis.

Swap: Casa Mila, Barcelona, Spain

Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera, is one of Antoni Gaudi’s most famous works and a prime example of Catalan modernism. Its undulating stone facade and whimsical wrought-iron balconies make it a must-see for visitors to Barcelona. However, getting inside to explore Gaudi's surreal rooftop terrace, the Espai Gaudi attic museum and various exhibition rooms​ comes with a significant entry fee, with tickets starting at £24 ($30) per person.

For: Hospital de Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain

A budget-friendly alternative is the Hospital de Sant Pau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by Lluis Domenech i Montaner and another stunning example of Catalan modernism. Featuring vibrant mosaics, intricate tile work and expansive gardens, the hospital complex offers a quieter, less crowded experience compared to Casa Mila. Entry is also more affordable, typically costing around £13 ($16) per person.

Swap: Bus Tours, Paris, France

Bus tours in Paris, such as those offered by Big Bus Tours and Tootbus, provide a convenient way to see many of the city's top attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame. While these tours offer the advantage of covering a lot of ground in a short time, they can be expensive, with prices typically starting at around £37 ($46) for a 24-hour hop-on, hop-off pass and increasing to approximately £85 ($106) for a 48-hour pass that includes additional features like a river cruise and night tour.

For: Self-Guided Walking Tours with Audio Guides, Paris, France

For a more flexible and budget-friendly option, self-guided walking tours with audio guides are a great choice. Many of these tours are available for free or at a very low cost, with prices often ranging from £4 to £13 ($5 to $16). With an audio guide app on your smartphone you can explore Paris at your own pace, stopping for coffee, a croissant or a glass of 'vin rouge' whenever you like, and spending more time at the places that interest you.

Swap: Madame Tussauds, London, England, UK

Visitors to the star-studded world of Madame Tussauds can rub shoulders with celebs, pose with historical legends and even catch a Marvel superhero in action in the 4D cinema. The London hotspot is packed with Instagram-worthy moments and a few surprises, like the Spirit of London ride that whisks you through the city's past. But it all comes at a price – early bird tickets start at £29 ($37) per adult, but if you wait until the day of your visit you're looking at around £42 ($54). Sure, it’s a blockbuster day out, but for families and groups those prices can add up fast.

For: The National Portrait Gallery, London, England, UK

Want to see famous figures for free? Head down to The National Portrait Gallery, located near London's iconic Trafalgar Square. This expansive gallery houses a vast collection of portraits spanning British history, from Tudor monarchs to contemporary celebrities like Ed Sheeran, Malala Yousafzai and David Beckham. Best of all, entry is free, making it a great way to dive into history and see some familiar faces without spending a penny.

Swap: Skating at the Rockefeller Center, New York City, New York, USA

Skating at the Rockefeller Center is a magical New York City experience, especially during the holiday season. Set against the backdrop of a towering Christmas tree and surrounded by the glittering lights of Midtown Manhattan, the rink offers a festive atmosphere that draws both tourists and locals. However, admission can range from £16 to £43 ($20 to $54) depending on the time of year, and skate rentals are an additional £12 ($15).

For: Skating at Bryant Park, New York City, New York, USA

Instead, head to Bryant Park’s Winter Village, where you can enjoy skating with free admission – you only need to pay for skate rentals, which are typically around £14 to £26 ($18 to $33). Set in the heart of Manhattan, this rink is surrounded by a festive market and tends to be less crowded, giving you more space to glide and enjoy the holiday ambiance.

Swap: Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest is a world-renowned festival, and nowhere does it better than Munich – known for its lively beer tents, traditional Bavarian music and extensive food options. Attending can be expensive, with costs for entry, food and drinks adding up quickly, often exceeding £50 ($65) per person.

For: Exploring Viktualienmarkt, Munich, Germany

For a more budget-conscious experience, visit Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s famous food market. Here, you can enjoy a variety of local foods and beverages without the high costs of Oktoberfest. Wandering through the market and sampling affordable delicacies offers a taste of Bavarian culture at a fraction of the price.

Swap: Gondola Ride, Amsterdam, Netherlands

A gondola ride through the canals of Amsterdam is a romantic way to experience the city – imagine the charm of Venice with a Dutch twist. These private boat tours let you glide through historic waterways, soaking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant city life. While it’s a memorable way to explore, the cost might not suit every traveller's budget, with prices ranging from around £85 to £170 ($100 to $200) for an hour-long ride.

For: Taking a Canal Ferry, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Save money by opting for a canal ferry instead. As part of the city’s public transportation network, these ferries offer a similar experience to gondola rides but at a fraction of the cost. A single trip can be as little as £3 ($4) or even free on certain routes, allowing you to take in the same scenic views of historic canals and waterfront buildings. With frequent services, canal ferries provide a convenient and budget-friendly way to soak up the city’s atmosphere from the water.

Swap: San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California, USA

The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, home to thousands of animals from all corners of the globe. It’s a fantastic place to learn about wildlife and conservation, with beautifully designed habitats and a wide variety of species, from pandas to polar bears. However, a day at the zoo is pricey, and tickets will set you back around £50 ($63) per adult.

For: La Jolla Cove, San Diego, California, USA

Alternatively, head to La Jolla Cove to see seals and sea lions in their natural habitat. This beautiful spot along the San Diego coastline offers stunning ocean views, crystal-clear waters and the chance to observe these marine mammals up close as they bask on the rocks or swim nearby. La Jolla Cove is completely free to visit, and you can spend as much or as little time as you like soaking in the sights.

Swap: Gondola Ride, Venice, Italy

A gondola ride in Venice is the quintessential romantic experience, offering a unique vantage point to admire the centuries-old architecture and picturesque bridges that line the canals. But a premium experience comes with a premium price tag, and current rates are around £70 to £90 ($90 to $115) for just a 30-minute ride.

For: Vaporetto Ride, Venice, Italy

The Vaporetto ride in Venice is a delightful and budget-friendly way to soak in the city's stunning waterways. As the public waterbus navigates the canals, passengers enjoy panoramic views of Venice’s historic architecture and bustling waterfront. A single ride on the Vaporetto costs about £7.50 ($9.50), making it a practical choice for travellers eager to experience Venice’s intricate canal system without the hefty price tag.

Swap: Skiing, Dubai, UAE

Skiing in Dubai might seem an unlikely activity, but the city’s indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai, offers a surprising alpine adventure amidst the desert heat. Inside the sprawling Mall of the Emirates, this high-tech facility features real snow, ski slopes and even a snow park, allowing visitors to enjoy skiing and snowboarding regardless of the outside temperature. Prices typically range from £60 to £100 ($75 to $125) for a day pass, including equipment rental.

For: Sandboarding, Dubai, UAE

Sandboarding takes you directly into the golden dunes, where you can glide down sandy slopes instead of snowy ones, embracing the thrill of desert adventure. It's fairly affordable too, with prices usually ranging from £30 to £50 ($37 to $62) for a sandboarding session. The genuine connection to the natural beauty of the UAE’s desert is an added bonus.

Swap: Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa, Italy

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of Italy’s most famous landmarks, renowned worldwide for its distinctive tilt. This medieval bell tower, part of the cathedral of the city of Pisa, draws visitors from all over the globe who come to marvel at its engineering and snap that classic 'holding up the tower' photo. The experience of climbing to the top and taking in the views of the surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli is memorable, though it comes at a cost, with tickets priced around £20 ($25) for the climb.

For: Torre Guinigi, Lucca, Italy

Torre Guinigi in Lucca offers a charming alternative with its own unique appeal. This medieval tower is distinguished by the lush garden atop it, featuring ancient oak trees that create a small green oasis above the city. Climbing the Torre Guinigi provides panoramic views of Lucca and its picturesque surroundings, all without the crowds typically found at more famous landmarks. The experience is also more budget-friendly, with entry fees usually around £7 ($9).

Swap: Bungee Jumping, Macau, China

Bungee jumping in Macau offers a thrilling adrenaline rush from the top of the Macau Tower, one of the highest commercial sky jumps in the world. The experience involves leaping from a height of 764 feet (233m), with breathtaking views of the cityscape and the Pearl River Delta. It’s an exhilarating activity for thrill-seekers, though it comes with a steep price tag, typically around £200 ($250) per jump.

For: Hiking at Coloane, Macau, China

Hiking at Coloane offers a more tranquil and cheaper alternative to the high-octane thrill of bungee jumping. Coloane Island features a network of scenic trails that wind through lush greenery, providing hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and coastline. The trails range from leisurely walks to more challenging hikes, all set against the backdrop of Macau’s natural beauty. Best of all, this outdoor adventure is completely free.

Swap: SkyJump, Auckland, New Zealand

SkyJump in Auckland provides a heart-pounding experience, offering a controlled base jump from the iconic Sky Tower. From a height of 630 feet (192m), participants freefall before being safely guided to the ground. This exhilarating activity comes at a premium, typically around £130 ($165) per jump, so it might not be ideal for those on a budget.

For: Climbing Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand

Climbing Mount Eden offers a different (and free) way to take in the beauty of Auckland. This volcanic cone provides one of the best vantage points in the city, with a relatively easy hike leading to the summit. From the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of Auckland’s skyline, harbours and distant volcanic peaks.

Swap: Universal Studios, Los Angeles, California, USA

Universal Studios Hollywood offers a thrilling theme park experience with a mix of rides, attractions and immersive shows. Visitors can explore famous movie sets, enjoy blockbuster-themed rides and experience the magic of film-making up close – but the park’s expansive offerings come with a significant cost, with tickets generally priced around £100 to £130 ($125 to $160) for a single-day admission.

For: Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California, USA

But you don't have to visit Universal to get a dose of Hollywood glitz and glamour. Follow in the footsteps of Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman as you browse the shops on Rodeo Drive, stroll down glamorous Sunset Boulevard and marvel at the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame, where hundreds of film stars have been immortalised in the form of handprints and signatures.

Swap: BridgeClimb, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

The BridgeClimb in Sydney allows participants to ascend the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and take in breathtaking views of the cityscape. This guided climb reaches a height of 440 feet (134m) above the harbour, providing panoramic vistas of Sydney, the Opera House and beyond. It will typically cost you around £180 to £230 ($225 to $290) per climb, a decent chunk out of anyone's budget.

For: Walking the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

But really, what's a view of Sydney Harbour without the bridge itself? Forego the expensive climb and stroll across the icon at street level for free, then stop on the shore to get a stunning shot like this one.

Swap: Chichen Itza Tour, Yucatan, Mexico

Chichen Itza, one of Mexico’s most famous archaeological sites, attracts visitors from around the world. A guided tour of this ancient Mayan city can be quite costly, typically around £60 to £80 ($75 to $100) per person, especially when factoring in transportation and entrance fees. There's also the issue of crowding during peak periods, which can make it hard to enjoy this stunning site.

For: Cenote Ik Kil, Yucatan, Mexico

Located just two miles (3km) from Chichen Itza, this beautiful natural sinkhole offers a refreshing swimming experience in a tropical setting –ideal for cooling off from the hot Mexican sun. Entrance fees are around £10 ($12), making it a cost-effective way to enjoy Mexico’s natural wonders. To avoid the largest crowds, it's advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Swap: Eiffel Tower, Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, drawing millions of visitors every year. While the experience of ascending this monumental structure is unforgettable, it comes with long lines, crowded viewing platforms and relatively high admission fees. The views from the top are spectacular, but you miss out on seeing the Eiffel Tower itself in the skyline, which is one of the most quintessential images of Paris. For those looking to avoid the crowds and get a broader view of the city, there is a better alternative.

For: Montparnasse Tower, Paris, France

The Montparnasse Tower offers an equally stunning view of Paris, but with a significant advantage: you can see the Eiffel Tower as part of the skyline. It features a 360-degree view of the city from its observation deck, which is much less crowded and more affordable. The lines are shorter and the experience is more relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking sights at your own pace. It's the perfect spot to take in the beauty of Paris while also capturing that iconic photo.

Swap: The Vatican Museums, Rome, Italy

The Vatican Museums are home to an extraordinary collection of art and historical artefacts, including the world-famous Sistine Chapel. However, this experience comes with a fairly high entry fee – the standard ticket price is around £17 ($21), with guided tours costing significantly more.

For: Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls, Rome, Italy

The Basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls is a hidden gem in Rome, far from the bustling crowds of the Vatican. This basilica, one of the four major papal basilicas in Rome, is known for its stunning interior, which is adorned with beautiful mosaics, intricate frescoes and impressive marble columns. Best of all, entry to the basilica is free, allowing visitors to explore its vast and peaceful spaces without any cost.