These are the 10 Dirtiest Tourist Cities in the World, According to a New Study
They’re on millions of travel bucket lists, but a new report shows these cities are battling major waste issues.
I’ll be the first to admit, some of my favorite cities in the world aren’t exactly known for being squeaky clean. But hey, that’s real life. Not every destination is going to look like a postcard, and sometimes the mess is part of the magic (or at least the reality of hosting millions of people each year).
A new study from Eagle Dumpster Rental ranked major tourist cities around the world based on how clean their streets actually are. They pulled data from sources like Numbeo’s pollution index, waste generation stats from Atlas D-Waste, and city-specific reports to come up with a “Street Cleanliness Score” for each place. (The higher the number, the dirtier the city ranked.)
The results might surprise you, but I’m not sharing this list to scare you away. These are all incredible places to visit… just maybe pack an extra pair of comfy shoes and some hand sanitizer.
10. Paris, France
Street Cleanliness Score: 60.26
Paris is timeless. Strolling along the Seine, sipping coffee at a sidewalk café, catching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night… It’s magic. But let’s be real, the streets can be a little rough around the edges, especially in busier arrondissements. Still, the beauty of Paris far outweighs a few overflowing trash bins. Just watch where you step!
9. Marrakech, Morocco
Street Cleanliness Score: 64.09
Marrakech is sensory overload in the best possible way: colors, spices, architecture, and energy like nowhere else. The medina is mesmerizing, but it’s also where the city’s cleanliness struggles are most visible. It’s part of the hustle and bustle. If you embrace the chaos, you’ll find plenty of charm beyond the surface.
8. San Francisco, USA
Street Cleanliness Score: 68.87
San Francisco has a little bit of everything: iconic views, diverse neighborhoods, and killer food. But visitors are often surprised by the cleanliness issues, especially downtown. It’s a complex city dealing with a lot, but that shouldn’t stop you from riding a cable car or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge. Just skip the flip-flops.
7. Bangkok, Thailand
Street Cleanliness Score: 70.41
Bangkok is electric…there’s no other way to describe it. Between the street food, markets, and temples, there’s so much to take in. And yes, the streets can get a little grungy, but for many travelers, that’s part of the authentic, lived-in vibe that makes the city unforgettable.
Check out my video below for some of the AMAZING things you can do in Bangkok.
6. Athens, Greece
Street Cleanliness Score: 70.82
There’s nothing quite like standing in the shadow of the Acropolis or watching the sun set. Athens is full of history and character, but it’s also a busy capital with modern-day challenges. Trash pick-up can be hit or miss in certain areas, especially during peak travel months. But don’t let that stop you from soaking up the mythology and Mediterranean magic.
See just how magical Athens can be in my 2-day itinerary video below!
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Street Cleanliness Score: 70.84
Mexico City is easily one of the most vibrant, exciting places you can visit. The food, the art, the neighborhoods, it’s all incredible. But being such a massive metropolis, it also has its fair share of street-level messiness.
4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Street Cleanliness Score: 77.53
Rio is breathtaking. The beaches, the mountains, the rhythm of the city, there’s a reason it’s a dream destination. While the city’s sheer size and economic divide contribute to waste management issues, the vibe here is unmatched. Just know the streets aren’t always pristine and pack accordingly.
3. Cairo, Egypt
Street Cleanliness Score: 81.17
Cairo is a city of extremes: ancient wonders, nonstop energy, and yes, a bit of urban grit. The pyramids alone are worth the trip, but it’s also one of the most congested cities in the world, and that shows in the pollution and street conditions. Still, if you go in with realistic expectations, it can be an incredible experience. (See my behind-the-scenes photos from the Pyramids for more on this!)
2. New York City, USA
Street Cleanliness Score: 81.76
I absolutely love NYC, but even the biggest fans can admit, it’s not the cleanest place. With nearly 9 million people (plus millions more visiting every year), keeping the streets spotless is nearly impossible. But between the food, museums, Broadway, and parks, it’s a small tradeoff for one of the greatest cities on Earth. I just always make sure to wear closed-toe shoes.
1. Rome, Italy
Street Cleanliness Score: 82.44
Rome! The food, the ruins, the gelato… and apparently, the trash. According to this study, the Eternal City has the dirtiest streets of any major tourist destination. But honestly, I still think it’s one of the most magical places you can visit. Just be prepared for the occasional garbage pile, especially in less-touristy neighborhoods. It’s not ideal, but it’s also not a deal-breaker.
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