Travelling in the footsteps of the locals: how to find authentic locations

For many travellers, exploring a new country or city is limited to visiting the popular attractions listed in every tourist guidebook. But to experience the real atmosphere of a place and understand its culture and way of life, you should go further – follow in the footsteps of the locals and discover locations that are rarely mentioned in standard tourist itineraries.

Why choose authentic locations?

Travelling to authentic locations gives you the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the life of a country or city. By visiting the restaurants, cafes, markets, museums and natural attractions favoured by the residents themselves, you can better understand the traditions, culture and customs of the region.

A deeper understanding of the culture. Going where the locals spend their daily days means seeing the country from a different, more realistic perspective. Authentic places reveal cultural subtleties that you can’t experience in tourist areas.

Budget Savings. Popular tourist locations are often much more expensive than those that are geared towards locals. You can find good restaurants and interesting entertainment at more affordable prices.

Unique experiences. Travelling to authentic places offers new experiences that are often left out of the picture for most tourists. These can be small cafes with home-cooked food, hidden nature trails or unusual local festivals.

How to find authentic locations?

Finding authentic locations can seem daunting, especially if you’re visiting a new city or country for the first time. However, there are proven ways to find those ‘treasures’ hidden from the eyes of mass tourism.

1. Talking to the locals

The best source of information is, of course, the locals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: ask hotel staff, baristas in cafes or just passers-by what places they recommend to visit. Locals are more likely to know the places that would go unnoticed on a tourist map.

2. Using local apps and websites

Many countries have online platforms where locals share their recommendations on the best places to stay, walk and shop. For example, sites and apps like Foursquare, Yelp or Google Maps often feature reviews from local users, not just tourists.

3. Immerse yourself in social media

Social media can be a great tool for finding hidden locations. Look for geotagged photos and recommendations, use local hashtags, and follow the accounts of local bloggers and photographers. They often share secret places where they spend time themselves.

4. Travelling on foot

The easiest and most effective way to find authentic locations is to simply walk around the city without a clear plan. Go to random cafes, pay attention to the places the locals go, and discover a new city through its daily life. It’s often these unplanned walks that lead to surprising discoveries.

5. Visit markets and festivals

Local markets are the true heart of any city. Here you can not only buy fresh produce, but also experience the atmosphere of everyday life. The markets sell goods that are used by the locals themselves, be it spices, fruits or handmade souvenirs. Also look out for local festivals and holidays: these events will give you a unique opportunity to experience the culture and traditions of the region.