When you visit a new city, it’s easy to fall into the tourist trap: visiting only the major attractions, sticking to the well-worn paths, and dining in places that cater exclusively to travellers. However, to truly experience a city in its full glory, you need to see it through the eyes of a local. This means wandering beyond the main tourist sites, trying the food and drinks that locals love, and engaging in experiences that reveal the true heart of the city. Here’s how to experience a city like a local, whether you’re visiting a bustling metropolis or a quaint town.
- Use Public Transportation
One of the best ways to experience a city like a local is to take public transport. Locals use buses, trams, subways, and trains to get around, and it’s an easy way to get a feel for the city’s rhythm and daily life. Not only is it cost-effective, but it will also give you a more authentic experience of how people move through the city.
Before hopping on, learn how the transport system works. Download apps or maps to help you navigate the bus or metro routes. Try to travel during rush hour to see how locals manage their daily commutes – it’s a fascinating aspect of city life. Additionally, public transport allows you to explore different neighborhoods you might not otherwise visit, giving you a true sense of the city’s diversity.
- Shop at Local Markets
Local markets are the heart and soul of many cities. Whether it’s a food market, a flea market, or a craft market, these places give you a taste of local culture and provide opportunities to interact with residents. Rather than shopping in touristy areas or malls, visit the markets where locals do their grocery shopping, buy fresh produce, or hunt for unique finds.
In these markets, you can chat with vendors and learn about regional ingredients, local foods, or traditional crafts. If you’re in a city known for its food, like Barcelona or Bangkok, be sure to try something new – a fresh fruit juice, a pastry, or street food that’s loved by the locals. Shopping at a market is one of the most authentic ways to experience a city’s daily life.
- Try Local Food and Drinks
Eating like a local is essential to experiencing a city authentically. Skip the chain restaurants and tourist traps in favour of small, family-owned eateries, street food vendors, and local cafes where the locals are dining. Visit neighborhoods away from the main tourist centres and ask around for recommendations – you’ll often find that the best spots are hidden gems.
Try the local specialties that define the city’s cuisine. In Paris, it could be a croissant or escargot at a local bakery. In Tokyo, it might be ramen or sushi from a small, unassuming joint. Don’t forget to try the local beverages too – whether it’s craft beer, coffee, or regional wine, drinking what the locals drink will give you a fuller picture of the city’s culture.
- Walk, Walk, Walk
Walking is one of the best ways to experience a city like a local. It allows you to stumble upon hidden gems that you might miss if you’re driving or on a guided tour. Take time to wander the streets, explore local neighbourhoods, and venture into areas that aren’t necessarily tourist attractions but offer insight into local life.
Take a walk through the quieter parts of the city, where you’ll see residents going about their daily routines. Walk through parks, residential streets, or along riversides to see how the city’s residents live. Not only will you get a feel for the local vibe, but you’ll also discover charming cafes, boutique shops, or picturesque corners of the city that are often overlooked by tourists.
- Join Local Events and Festivals
Every city has its own unique rhythm, and one of the best ways to experience this is by joining local events, festivals, or activities. Check out what’s happening during your visit – whether it’s a local concert, a street festival, a food tasting event, or a community celebration. These events often reflect the city’s culture, history, and traditions, and they provide a great opportunity to interact with locals.
Attending a local event will immerse you in the community, making you feel more like a resident than a tourist. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the people around you – locals love sharing their city’s stories and recommendations.
- Get to Know the Local Coffee and Pub Culture
Coffee shops and pubs are often the meeting places for locals, and these spaces offer a relaxed atmosphere to experience a city’s social life. In cities like Melbourne, coffee is an art form, and trying the local brew at a favourite café is an essential part of the experience. Similarly, in many European cities, the pub is the heart of the community. Take time to sit at a local café or pub, order a drink, and soak up the atmosphere.
In many places, locals will take time to enjoy their coffee slowly, chat with friends, or just people-watch. Take a moment to embrace this slower pace, away from the hustle of typical tourist activities. You’ll often feel more connected to the city when you’re part of this daily ritual.
- Talk to Locals
The best way to experience a city like a local is by talking to the people who live there. Whether you’re at a café, waiting for the bus, or shopping at the market, strike up a conversation with someone. Locals are often happy to share their tips and insights into the best places to visit, eat, and explore.
Ask for recommendations on hidden gems, unique experiences, or events happening during your stay. They can often point you to places that don’t appear in guidebooks but are beloved by residents. The more you engage with the local community, the more authentic your experience will be.
- Avoid the Tourist Traps
While some well-known tourist attractions are worth visiting, experiencing a city like a local means going beyond the typical tourist spots. The crowded landmarks, expensive shops, and oversaturated areas can be overwhelming and don’t always offer the full picture of a city.
Instead, focus on the lesser-known areas that reveal more about the city’s everyday life. Explore quiet neighbourhoods, walk down hidden alleyways, or take a bus to a less-visited part of town. Ask locals for their favourite places to go for a true feel of the city.
- Learn the Language (or at Least the Basics)
Even if you’re not fluent, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can go a long way in helping you connect with locals. Simple greetings, “thank you,” “please,” and “excuse me” will show that you respect their culture and are making an effort. In some cities, speaking the local language can open doors to experiences that may not be available to non-locals.
Knowing a bit of the language can also help you navigate menus, signs, and public transport more easily, making your trip feel more comfortable and authentic.
Conclusion
Experiencing a city like a local means immersing yourself in the daily life and culture of the place. By using public transportation, shopping at local markets, trying authentic food, and interacting with residents, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city and its rhythms. So next time you’re visiting a new destination, step off the beaten path and embrace the local way of life – it’s the best way to truly experience a city.
