Tourist traps are everywhere in major cities—overpriced restaurants, crowded attractions, and pushy salespeople. While they’re hard to avoid entirely, there are ways to minimize your exposure and experience a more authentic side of a city.
Here’s how to steer clear of tourist traps when traveling.
Research in Advance
Before your trip, do some research on common tourist traps in your destination. Read travel blogs, online forums, and guidebooks to identify places that are notorious for being overcrowded, overpriced, or overhyped.
Knowing what to avoid ahead of time will help you plan your trip more effectively.
For example, while famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or Times Square are must-sees, it’s helpful to research alternative places where you can experience the city without the crowds.
Venture Beyond the Tourist Zones
Tourist traps are usually concentrated in specific areas, such as city centers or near popular attractions.
To avoid them, venture beyond the main tourist zones and explore neighborhoods where locals live, work, and play. Visiting local markets, parks, and restaurants off the beaten path will give you a more authentic experience.
Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat or what to see—you’ll often discover hidden gems that don’t appear on tourist maps.
Avoid Restaurants Near Major Attractions
Restaurants located right next to major landmarks or in busy tourist areas tend to be overpriced and cater to tourists rather than locals.
To find better food at more reasonable prices, walk a few blocks away from the main attractions and look for restaurants filled with locals.
Local spots often serve more authentic dishes and provide a genuine taste of the area’s cuisine, without the inflated prices or touristy atmosphere.
Use Public Transport
Tourist traps often include overpriced tours and transportation options, like hop-on-hop-off buses or expensive taxis near attractions.
Instead, use public transport like buses, trains, or subways to get around the city. Public transport is not only cheaper but also gives you a chance to see how locals travel and experience the city in a more authentic way.
If you’re unsure about the routes, ask a local or look up transportation apps that can guide you through the city.
