TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The holiday season is often associated with long queues at popular tourist attractions, both locally and internationally. This is especially true during the year-end holidays, national public holidays, and school breaks. The queues can sometimes take up to one to two hours.
According to the travel platform Just You, for example, the queues at the Taj Mahal can reach up to four hours, as reported by IBTimes. The queues at the Palace of Versailles in France and the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, can take up to 2.5 hours.
Although one must be patient, the time wasted queuing can disrupt previously scheduled holiday plans. Several tips can be implemented to avoid queues at tourist attractions.
Tips to Avoid Queues at Tourist Sites and Attractions
1. Hire a private tour guide
An easy way to avoid waiting in lines is to book a private tour that offers VIP access, as reported by Travel and Leisure. However, it is important to budget accordingly if considering engaging a tour guide.
2. Purchase tickets online well in advance
Another option is to purchase entrance tickets online well in advance. This way, there is no need to queue for tickets, and one can proceed directly to the entrance. However, some tourist attractions charge higher fees for online ticket purchases. Additionally, it is important to ensure that tickets are purchased from the official website of the respective tourist attraction.
3. Buy skip-the-line tickets
In addition to standard tickets, skip-the-line tickets are also available. However, one still needs to pass through security checks. These tickets can also be purchased online and usually cost more than standard tickets.
Often, these tickets are add-ons, as implemented at Disney California Adventure Park. Travelers can use these tickets for several rides and still need to queue, but the queues are usually shorter. If planning to visit more than one attraction in the same city or destination, look for multi-attraction tickets that include access to all attractions on the itinerary.
4. Visit during off-peak times
Some tourist attractions offer night tours, such as at the Colosseum. Apart from the more comfortable temperature, these places are also less crowded at night. Conversely, travelers can take advantage of the early morning hours. For example, to watch the sunrise at Butte Montmartre in Paris and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart without the crowds on the stairs.
5. Look for lesser-used entrances
Chadi Lotfi, the front office manager at Fauchon L'Htel Paris, suggests that travelers avoid the main entrance of the Louvre, Paris, namely the iconic glass pyramid. Instead, try entering through the Carrousel entrance or the Richelieu entrance on Rue de Rivoli. Although these places might be less Instagrammable, the queues are often shorter.
Read: From K-Pop to Metal: What Your Spotify Wrapped Says About Where You Should Travel in 2026