In this post we share our high-impact, low-cost ways to see and explore a city and acquaint yourself with the local culture.
Places to observe local culture and customs
- Libraries
- Churches and cathedrals
- Public parks, lakes, walking trails
- (Used) book stores
- Public metro center
- Grocery stores
- Museums (many offer free admission days)
- Universities – main quad
Activities
- Participate in a free, tip-based walking tour
- Rent a bike and cruise around town
- Explore local festivals and fairs
- Take a language class hosted by locals
- Attend a literature or poetry reading at a bookstore
- Go dancing
- Check in with the local tourism board to see if they offer opportunities to meet locals willing to show you around town
- Stop by iconic landmarks across the city without necessarily entering
People watching activities
- Explore the city’s best hotel lobbies across town
- Wander through public metro station stops to check out the local art
- Watch a futbol (soccer) game of the city’s local team
- Go to a live music concert
- Watch street performers
- Meander through the local flea or farmer’s market
Food & drink based activities
- Stop by the local farmer’s market, pick up a variety of picnic fixings and picnic at a local park
- Grab a coffee at a cafe and people watch
- Try local cuisine during happy hour
- Cruise by the food trucks and pick up bites from various vendors
- Grab a drink at a local watering hole or dive bar
- Try out tapas, appetizers, and other “small bites” plates and dishes to get a sense of the local flavors
Resources
- Airbnb’s Experiences – activities hosted by locals (prices vary)
- City’s event calendar for a “what’s on” guide
- City’s information/tourism center
- Your hostel/hostel/BnB front desk if they host any activities
- Ask local shop owners for their ideas of hidden gems throughout the city