When planning a trip, most travelers search for “top attractions” or “viral places to visit.” But many of the most memorable travel moments happen far away from those busy spots. Exploring a country locally allows you to experience the true essence of a place, its people, flavors, rhythm, and everyday life. It is a slower and more meaningful way to travel, where your best guide is not the internet, but the locals themselves.
Start by Asking the Locals
One of the most effective ways to discover hidden gems is simply by talking to the people who live there. Your hotel receptionist, hostel staff, or even the barista at the café you visit can give recommendations that you will never find on any travel website.
- They know the small restaurants hidden in the alleys
- They know which neighborhoods are lively at night
- They know about local events that don’t appear online
These suggestions are often based on personal favorites, not on what’s trending, making the experience more genuine. In cities that are not popular among tourists, this becomes even more valuable because many local activities or gatherings are never shared on the internet.
Visit Neighborhood Markets
Instead of heading to the famous tourist markets, explore the local, everyday markets where residents buy their groceries. These markets open early and are filled with vendors calling out prices, fresh produce being arranged, and families hurrying to buy ingredients for the day.
Walking through these markets teaches you a lot about local culture:
- What the community eats
- Which fruits and veggies are in season
- How people interact with each other
If you’re curious, ask a vendor about a certain ingredient or dish. Many will happily explain, and you might even discover a new snack or recipe to try.
Eat Where the Locals Eat
Family-run restaurants and small street food stalls often serve the most authentic dishes. Unlike viral restaurants that adjust their flavors to attract international visitors, local eateries stay true to their traditional recipes.
Ask locals where they usually have lunch or dinner. They won’t direct you to places with long queues of tourists; instead, they’ll recommend humble spots that deliver real flavor. In small towns, these places may not even be listed on Google Maps, making them special discoveries you could never plan in advance.
Join Local Events and Community Activities
In less-touristy cities, local events are rarely advertised online. Neighborhood festivals, cultural performances, weekend bazaars, and seasonal celebrations mostly spread through word of mouth. Locals are usually more than happy to tell you if something is happening nearby.
Attending these events helps you understand the culture in a deeper way. You might stumble upon a traditional dance performance, a local fair, or a community night market that tourists never get to see.
Prepare Your Internet Connection Too
Even though you ask locals about hidden places or local activities, you still need to double-check online to make sure the activity matches your preferences. Eskimo eSIM has a special trial offer for you: free 500 MB of global data that you can use in 140+ countries. You can try Eskimo eSIM’s connection first, and afterwards you can purchase an internet data plan starting from $1.8 per GB, valid for 2 years!
FAQs
How do I avoid areas that feel too touristy?
Start by walking a few blocks away from main attractions. Residential neighborhoods, small community centers, and local parks often show a more authentic side of a city without the tourist crowds.
What should I pay attention to when exploring less-visited areas?
Observe how locals behave, such as how they queue, pay, or interact. Cultural etiquette can vary, and being aware helps you blend in respectfully and avoid misunderstandings.
How can I prepare myself before exploring a new city on foot?
Wear comfortable shoes, carry small local currency, and learn a few basic phrases in the local language. These small steps make it easier to communicate, navigate, and connect with people around you.
