Avoiding Tourist Traps: Smarter Ways to Experience a City

Why Tourist Traps Are Hard to Avoid

You’ve just landed in a new city, ready to soak up the atmosphere. But instead of finding hidden gems, you’re sipping overpriced coffee in front of the main attraction, surrounded by crowds of tourists.

Avoiding tourist traps is one of the easiest ways to elevate your travel experience and in this guide, we’ll give you our personal tips to do it the smart way.

Coffee in the Back Alley, Not the Main Square

One of the surest signs of a tourist trap? A café with a front-row seat to a famous landmark. The view might be tempting, but the coffee is usually overpriced and underwhelming.

Instead, wander down a back alley where locals actually go. You’ll not only get better quality at a fair price, but also soak in the real atmosphere of the city. Bonus: fewer selfie sticks in your photos.

Skip the Menus With Pictures

Restaurants with glossy photo menus often cater to tourists, not locals. These spots prioritize speed over authentic flavours. For a more genuine experience:

• Look for handwritten chalkboards
• Follow where locals are heading, not the tourist crowd
• Ask someone from the neighbourhood for their favourite spot

When in doubt, MyGuideGuru can help you find eateries that are truly worth your time.

Discover Suburbs Where Locals Eat

Every city has neighbourhoods where locals go for the best food and experiences. Instead of sticking to the tourist district, explore suburbs just outside the centre.

With MyGuideGuru you can make a personalised tour specific to a district or suburb, allowing you to get off the beaten path and get recommendations where you’ll find less tourists.

Climb the Second Tallest Building

Tourists flock to the city’s most famous landmark, but sometimes, the real magic is from a different vantage point. Instead of waiting in line:

• Visit the second tallest building
• Enjoy panoramic views that actually include the landmark
• Pair it with a drink for a more relaxed, unforgettable moment

This way, you see the city from a fresh perspective, minus the crowds and the queues.

Experience More, Stress Less

Avoiding tourist traps isn’t about skipping attractions, it’s about finding smarter, more authentic ways to enjoy them. Step away from the obvious, embrace local insights, and you’ll create memories that feel personal and unique.

Want more tips on making the most of your travels? Head to our homepage to download the app and discover how MyGuideGuru can help you unlock authentic experiences wherever you go.