Discover why waking early unlocks hidden sides of cities, avoids crowds, and makes travel richer with culture, history, and quieter moments.
It’s no surprise to anyone who knows me that I’m an early bird. I’ve never had the stamina for late nights and quickly earned the nickname “nanna” as soon as I got my first ID. Honestly, it didn’t bother me. I’ve always been a start-early, finish-early kind of girl, preferring to wake with the sunrise and chase sunsets rather than blur through nightlife.
Of course, there were exceptions. I could muster stamina for big events! The races… or that unforgettable 5am in Brazil when we watched the State of Origin followed by the Dutch vs Australia in the Soccer World Cup. But given the choice, it’s the quiet mornings that have always been my favourite.
Travelling as an early riser has endless rewards. Morning light dancing across courtyards, soft golden hues over historic facades, and the hush before a city fully wakes make for much better memories than blurry photos from dance floors. There’s something magical about stepping into streets that feel like they belong just to you.
Milan at sunrise looks like a stage set, deserted and glowing in soft light. Portugal’s beaches at sunset let you sink your toes into sand as the sky puts on a show (pictured). In Istanbul, I’ll never forget the underground cistern in eerie silence, being the very first person through the doors for the day. Beyond the beauty, there’s also comfort in avoiding the midday heat of a European summer. A reason itself to start early.
Do yourself a favour on your next trip: set that alarm and step outside when the city is just stirring. Watch locals head out for their morning run, breathe in the smell of fresh bread from the bakery, and slip into attractions before the crowds descend. Those quiet moments offer not just better photos, but a deeper connection to the rhythm of a place.
Morning is also the perfect time to wander with your favourite walking tour app in hand. The streets are clear, your mind is fresh, and the stories you uncover bring colour and life to your photos. Instead of rushing, you get to savour the city in its most authentic light.
Waking early isn’t just a habit, it’s a way of travelling that opens up cities in a new light. Download MyGuideGuru and see how self-guided tours can make those quiet hours even more rewarding, turning early starts into some of your most unforgettable travel memories.
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