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The Dead Sea has been ranked the world’s second-worst tourist destination in a new global index released by luggage storage network Stasher. The report evaluated 101 of the world’s most visited attractions, using five key metrics to determine overall visitor satisfaction.
Stasher analyzed Google Reviews, TikTok engagement, airport accessibility, country safety and accommodation quality. The Dead Sea received an overall score of 3.51 out of 10, placing it only slightly above the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which topped the list as the worst-rated site.
Despite its iconic status as the lowest point on earth and its fame for mineral-rich muds and healing waters, the Dead Sea’s remote location worked heavily against it. Stasher noted that its considerable distance from major airports and population centers significantly reduces convenience for visitors.
The report also highlighted regional instability as a major factor impacting the destination’s score. Situated between Israel, Jordan and the West Bank, the area is surrounded by sensitive geopolitical zones, which can affect travel confidence and safety perceptions.
In addition to safety concerns, accessibility issues were flagged as a persistent challenge.
Road quality, limited public transport options and the growing number of sinkholes around the shoreline have complicated travel along the coast.
By contrast, the report praised destinations that combine cultural value with convenience and safety. Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia earned the top spot, followed by the Colosseum in Rome and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Other poorly ranked locations included Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, Tasmania’s MONA museum and the UK’s Stonehenge. Major natural landmarks such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Peru’s Machu Picchu also appeared in the bottom ten due to accessibility concerns.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame received the lowest overall score, at 2.67 out of 10.
Stasher pointed to poor Google Reviews, high crime rates in the surrounding area and a relatively long travel time from Los Angeles International Airport.
While the Dead Sea’s ranking may raise concerns among regional tourism operators, experts note that its unique natural features continue to attract visitors year-round.
However, Stasher’s findings suggest that significant improvements in transport infrastructure and safety conditions would be needed to elevate its global standing.
Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza were the only Middle Eastern site to break into the top ten, ranking sixth overall in the global assessment.