12 things you didn't know about the world's biggest tourist attractions

Did you know that 40 percent of New York City's subway system is above ground and operates 24 hours a day? Did you know that London attracts more international visitors than any other city on the planet? Read on to discover more fun and trivia about the biggest tourist destinations in the world.

The Golden Gate Bridge

One of the world's most famous tourist attractions, the San Francisco Suspension Bridge isn't actually gold—its official paint color is "orange." Its official website even publishes the color formula used to achieve this orange hue, so bridge fans can replicate the exact tone at home. The bridge owes its golden name to the Golden Gate Strait, the waterway that spans it, not the color of the paint.

Big Ben

 According to the British Parliament website, the tower is officially called the Clock Tower. Big Ben is the nickname of the bell of the clock.

Australia

Don't forget your swimsuit if you travel to Australia. The country claims to have over 10,000 beaches on its territory – more than any other country in the world.

Reaching triumphantly into the sky above the waters of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of America's most beloved attractions. But surprisingly, this iconic American landmark began life in Europe. Built by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi, the statue took 9 years to complete and was shipped from France to New York in 350 separate pieces.

Eiffel Tower

For more than 600 Parisians, the elegant Eiffel Tower serves as their daily workplace.

Grand Canyon

Arizona's steep canyon is certainly awesome, but it's not the largest in the world. Tsangpo Canyon in Tibet actually holds the title as the largest and deepest canyon on the planet. Grand Canyon is the runner-up.

The Vatican

Museum lovers, pack your bags for Italy. The Vatican Museums host the largest museum complex in the world with a wealth of treasures and masterpieces collected by various popes over the centuries. There is no other place in the world that gathers so many exhibits in one place.

The great Chinese Wall

Despite the claims of various sources, including Ripley's Believe It Or Not in the 1930s, NASA states that the Great Wall of China is not visible from the Moon.

The inscription Hollywood

California's famous Hollywood sign was originally built in 1923 as a massive billboard. Los Angeles Times publisher Harry Chandler pitches the marquee to advertise his real estate. At the time, the sign read "Hollywood" and had an expected lifespan of one year. Eighty years later, this temporary sign attracts Hollywood-dreaming visitors from around the world.

The Basilica of Sagrada Familia

Barcelona's most popular tourist attraction, the Sagrada Familia is an extravagant and incredible sight. Construction of the Gaudi-designed church began in 1882 and continues to this day. Funded entirely by donations, the Sagrada Familia uniquely stands out as one of Barcelona's most recognizable symbols. It is expected to be completed in 2022.

Walt Disney

Not only is Walt Disney in Orlando, Florida the most popular theme park in the world, it's also the largest. The enchanting land of theme parks, hotels, camping and live entertainment can rival many big cities. In fact, Disney World covers an area twice the size of Manhattan. The resort is also the largest single-site employer in the US with over 50,000 workers toiling behind the magical doors.