London is a city of endless possibilities, but a new list suggests some of its most famous spots might be best avoided. The Telegraph has placed Leicester Square in central London as the second-worst tourist attraction in Europe, branding it one of the continent's 'most naff attractions where no discerning tourist would be seen dead'.
Why Leicester Square Made the 'Must Avoid' List
The iconic plaza, home to M&M World, the Hippodrome Casino, and the ODEON Luxe cinema, was criticised for its intense atmosphere. The area is known for its flashing neon screens, loud music from businesses and rickshaws, and immense crowds. It reportedly attracts over 2.5 million visitors every week, leading to what the paper describes as a recipe for 'complete sensory overload'.
In a scathing review, The Telegraph's travel expert Rob Crossan wrote: 'There is no finer act of charity that a Londoner can bestow upon a visitor than to drag them away from M&M World, the Hippodrome, the Hard Rock Café and everything else that makes Leicester Square feel like a vision of what Las Vegas would be like if it was run by [Ryanair CEO] Michael O’Leary.'
Other European Landmarks to Steer Clear Of
Leicester Square was not alone in receiving harsh criticism. The Telegraph's top 10 list of European attractions to avoid, published on Monday 22 December 2025, also included Juliet's Balcony in Verona, Iceland's Blue Lagoon, and John O'Groats in Scotland. The latter was described as 'the most undeserving tourist attraction of them all'.
Finding Better Experiences in London
The positive takeaway for visitors is that Leicester Square is easy to bypass. London offers hundreds of authentic and rewarding alternatives, from world-class museums and historic sites to innovative restaurants and theatre shows. Tourists are encouraged to consult curated guides to the city's 50 best things to do to plan a more fulfilling itinerary.
For those seeking the energy of a central hub without the overwhelming commercial feel, exploring neighbouring areas like Covent Garden, Soho, or the South Bank might provide a more enjoyable experience. The key is to look beyond the most hyped destinations to discover the true character of the UK's capital.
