ExploreMoreEveryday

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Traveling to a new city can be an exciting adventure, but for many, the typical tourist spots—crowded landmarks, overhyped attractions, and expensive eateries—can leave you feeling less than fulfilled. If you’re craving a more authentic experience that goes beyond the postcard-perfect views and packed tour buses, then it’s time to explore like a local. By stepping off the beaten path and immersing yourself in the everyday life of a city, you can uncover hidden gems, gain a deeper appreciation for its culture, and truly feel like you belong. Here’s how you can explore cities like a local and avoid the usual tourist traps.

1. Do Your Research Beyond the Guidebooks

Guidebooks and popular travel websites often prioritize the same tourist attractions that everyone flocks to. While these spots can be worthwhile, they aren’t always where you’ll find the true essence of a city. To explore like a local, dig deeper into blogs, local forums, or social media accounts of people who actually live in the city. Websites like Atlas Obscura specialize in uncovering quirky, lesser-known spots that only locals frequent.

• Tip: Search for local influencers or travel writers on Instagram or YouTube who focus on off-the-beaten-path destinations. They often share hidden gems that haven’t yet been commercialized.

2. Walk, Cycle, or Use Public Transport

One of the best ways to experience a city like a local is by avoiding taxis and private tours. Instead, walk or cycle through the streets to get a genuine feel for the city. You’ll have the chance to stumble upon unexpected corners, local cafes, hidden parks, and street art. Many cities offer bike-sharing programs, which are a great way to get around quickly while still being immersed in the atmosphere.

Public transportation is another fantastic way to explore. Using buses, trains, or trams allows you to experience the city from a local’s perspective. Plus, public transport is often the quickest and most affordable way to navigate through urban areas.

• Tip: In cities like New York, Tokyo, or Barcelona, take a subway ride during off-peak hours to experience the rhythms of local life, from daily commuters to regional events.

3. Eat Where Locals Eat

Forget about the restaurants on the main square or the ones with big touristy menus. Instead, ask locals where they go for lunch or dinner. Often, the best food is found in places where you won’t find a menu in English or Instagram-worthy plates. Look for neighborhood eateries or food stalls where the locals line up.

Local markets and street food vendors often offer an authentic taste of the city, with fresh ingredients and unique dishes that aren’t mass-produced for tourists. In many cities, you can find off-the-beaten-path restaurants by checking out online reviews, food blogs, or food apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor, but filtering out those that cater primarily to tourists.

• Tip: Avoid restaurants near major tourist attractions. Walk a few blocks away from the crowds to find small, family-owned spots that locals swear by.

4. Skip the Crowded Landmarks and Visit Hidden Attractions

While some famous landmarks are a must-see, many popular tourist attractions are overcrowded and overpriced. Instead, seek out lesser-known sites that offer a similar experience but with fewer people.

For example, instead of visiting the crowded Colosseum in Rome, try the Baths of Caracalla, which are just as impressive but less touristy. Or, in Paris, skip the Louvre and visit the Musée Marmottan Monet, which houses an extensive collection of Monet’s works without the overwhelming crowds. Many cities also have free museums, hidden gardens, and quirky little spots you wouldn’t typically find in a guidebook.

• Tip: Research hidden gems like small, local museums, off-the-beaten-path parks, or alternative historical sites. Locals often love to show visitors these quieter, more intimate places.

5. Attend Local Events and Festivals

Check out what’s happening during your visit by browsing local event listings or community bulletin boards. Whether it’s a small street festival, an open-air market, or a live music event in a park, participating in local events will immerse you in the city’s culture. Events like these are often free or low-cost, and they’ll give you the chance to interact with locals and experience the city through their eyes.

• Tip: Look for events in neighborhoods away from major tourist spots. These are often where locals gather to celebrate their culture, share their traditions, and enjoy local music or food.

6. Stay in Residential Neighborhoods

Instead of booking a hotel in a popular tourist district, try renting an apartment or staying in a guesthouse in a more residential area. This will give you a taste of everyday life, from the local bakeries and cafes to the small parks where families relax after work. You'll also likely have a more personal, authentic experience and get insider tips on where to eat, what to see, and where to go.

• Tip: Use platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com to find accommodations in neighborhoods that aren’t usually on the tourist radar. Areas like La Barceloneta in Barcelona or Sants-Montjuïc in Madrid are great alternatives to the crowded city centers.

7. Shop at Local Markets and Artisan Shops

Forget about the massive tourist shops selling trinkets and souvenirs. Instead, head to local markets and artisan shops where you’ll find handmade goods, local produce, and unique items that reflect the culture and history of the city. Farmers’ markets often showcase the best regional produce, while artisan shops sell locally made jewelry, crafts, and clothing. These spots allow you to support local artists and small businesses while picking up something truly special.

• Tip: In places like Marrakech, Istanbul, or Mexico City, explore the smaller neighborhood markets rather than the ones near major tourist attractions.

8. Be Open to Spontaneity

One of the most rewarding aspects of exploring like a local is being open to spontaneity. While having a loose plan is essential, allow yourself to get lost in the city and discover unexpected treasures. You might stumble upon a street performance, an intriguing alleyway café, or a local gathering that you would never have experienced on a typical tourist tour.

• Tip: Take time to wander aimlessly in unfamiliar neighborhoods. You’ll be surprised by what you’ll find when you let go of the need to stick to a strict itinerary.

9. Embrace the Local Pace and Mindset

Lastly, to truly explore like a local, embrace the rhythm of life in the city. Whether it’s taking a leisurely coffee break in the afternoon or participating in a quiet evening stroll, try to adjust to the city’s pace. Avoid rushing from one sight to the next; instead, take your time to appreciate the details—the street art, the local conversations, the architecture, and the atmosphere.

• Tip: In cities like Paris or Rome, locals often enjoy a long lunch break and an evening stroll. Try adopting the same pace and enjoy the city as they do.

Conclusion

Exploring a city like a local offers a richer, more authentic experience than following the well-trodden tourist paths. By embracing local traditions, stepping off the beaten track, and engaging with the daily life of the city, you’ll not only avoid the crowds but also discover hidden gems and create lasting memories. So, the next time you visit a new city, make it your mission to explore with a local’s eye and truly experience the soul of the place.