Every traveller knows the feeling—that building excitement, the sweet anticipation of the next big adventure. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, with the whole world to explore.
For getting to know the local culture, quirks, history and hidden gems, there’s nothing better than going on a city tour. Whether you go for a DIY option or join a group, there’s nothing better than soaking it all in. But how do you make sure you get the most out of it?
From pre-planning, to insider tips, to packing smart with a trusty water bottle and some sturdy shoes, buckle up for some nifty hacks to make your next trip a jam-packed adventure!
1. Know before you go
You only know what you know, so a little pre-trip research is key to avoid missing out. After all, you don’t want to get back home and realise you missed out on the city’s best-kept secrets.
When you’re planning your urban adventure, take the time to dig a bit deeper into what the city has to offer. Dive into travel blogs and guide books like the Lonely Planet, and online forums and review platforms like Tripadvisor to find out more about the city’s unique history, must-see landmarks and quirky (IG-worthy) spots.
It also helps to learn a little about the local customs, particularly if you’re travelling in a foreign country. Even if you don’t know everything, locals are usually happy that you tried, as it shows respect. Once you’ve gathered a list of cool places to hit, sketch out a loose itinerary. It doesn’t have to be too structured, just a rough guide to keep you on track, leaving lots of wiggle room for unexpected side quests and discoveries.
2. Choose the right tour for you
Tours come in different styles, from fully guided bus or walking tours to bike tours and hop-on-hop-off buses. It all boils down to your travel personality—do you like to go it alone with a guidebook in hand, or having a trusted guide giving you all the secrets of the city as you wander?
With a tour guide, you know for sure you won’t miss any of the top attractions. With a self-guided tour, you have ultimate flexibility to stay and spend more time in the places that speak to you, and to explore off the beaten track when something interesting catches your eye. If you like a bit of everything, a hop on, hop off tour can offer the best of both worlds—a splash of info, some freedom, and a comfy ride to all the hotspots.
From niche obsessions like Harry Potter tours to luxury and budget options, there’s something for everyone no matter where you go, so choose your own adventure!
3. Pack smart for the day
The golden rule for any city tour is comfy shoes. You want to focus on soaking in the sights, not wincing from blisters. Make sure you take your water bottle along for hydration on the go, and pack some snacks in an airtight insulated container to keep your energy up. Don’t let wet weather rain on your parade—pack those weather-appropriate essentials like a fold-up raincoat and waterproof shoes. Travel light, with just the essentials you’ll need in a daypack, that way you’ll breeze through your city tour.
4. Engage with locals
Wherever your wanderlust takes you, the best tour guide is a local. Someone who lives, eats and breathes the city and can take you to all the hottest places that only insiders know—offering their own insights and recommendations that you won’t find in a tourist guidebook. So dive into farmers’ and makers’ markets, eat at neighbourhood cafes and strike up conversations with people as you travel—you never know where it might lead you. Often, the best adventures are spontaneous, where you meet and mingle and make new friends.
5. Take the scenic route
Why rush through the city when you can savour every sight? You see so much more when you explore the city by foot or on a bike. Those little details that you miss when cruising by in a car or train are easier to spot and admire. Remember to look up – the intricate beauty of different architectural styles across the continents, from Gothic to Victorian to Art Deco and everything in-between, is often above us. Travelling this way also allows you to wander off the beaten path, giving you the chance to stumble upon unexpected sights. You can set a course along scenic routes or opt for less-travelled streets that showcase the city’s character, giving you a more immersive experience in the process.
So the next time you’re planning a city adventure, start with a little preparation and planning, and pick a touring style that vibes with your personality. Pack light and smart, stay hydrated, and remember to look up and around you as you explore. Soak it all in and connect with the locals to really live the experience—because making new connections is where the real magic of travel lies.
