Tips for Steering Clear of Tourist Traps During Your Travels

Like many travelers, I’ve occasionally found myself ensnared by a so-called “tourist trap.” I’ve woken up in a nondescript hotel room adorned with a generic print of a local sight above the bed or wandered down a street lined with souvenir shops offering humorous T-shirts. In moments like these, I often wonder, “How did I end up here? Shouldn’t I be a savvier traveler?”

Tourist traps lurk wherever tourists gather, and they can ensnare even the most seasoned explorers. But what exactly qualifies as a tourist trap? And how should we approach the concept?

What defines a tourist trap?

A tourist trap refers to a location designed to attract and capitalize on tourists. However, Merriam-Webster's definition lacks subtlety, as what one individual views as a trap, another might see as a gem.

A tourist trap is frequently seen as the antithesis of an “authentic” experience. It's the type of place we tend to avoid when seeking the true essence of a destination. But what justifies that a hidden supper club in Hackney offers a more genuine glimpse of London than witnessing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace? Who decides what is genuinely “authentic” in the first place?

It’s important to differentiate between a tourist hotspot and a tourist trap. Many hotspots—like the Eiffel Tower—are breathtaking feats of engineering, nature, or culture that are preserved for visitors. In contrast, the souvenir shops that surround these attractions often lean toward being traps.

Rather than focusing on how to steer clear of tourist traps, perhaps a more valuable question is: How can travelers fully immerse themselves in a new city, experiencing both its iconic landmarks and the lesser-known spots that typical visitors may overlook?

Connect with local experts

“To steer clear of ‘inauthentic’ experiences, thorough research and planning ahead is essential,” states Lindsey Tramuta, a writer based in Paris who leads small group tours of the city. “However, it can be as straightforward as identifying the trustworthy local voices.”

She advises exploring the works of local writers in your destination and following chefs or restaurant proprietors on social media for insider knowledge.

Listen to the local vibe

Mary Rickard, a semi-retired journalist leading walking tours of New Orleans with Context Travel, recommends tuning into local radio stations and perusing newspapers to get acquainted with the area before your visit. This way, you’ll discover upcoming concerts, art shows, and other community happenings.

For instance, in New Orleans, musicians frequently appear on WWOZ radio programs before their shows. By attending a performance, you might engage in a conversation that provides fresh insights into the city and its residents.

Venture beyond the tour bus

While coach tours can be a great way to navigate unfamiliar places if you're not keen on exploring on your own, Rickard suggests that renting a car allows for a more relaxed experience, uncovering hidden gems and charming roadside eateries.

The same applies to other independent transport options, such as walking, cycling, and using public transit. Had I embraced this approach during my visit to Marrakech a few years ago, I might have avoided wasting time in my taxi driver’s cousin’s perfume shop.

Explore unfamiliar neighborhoods

The essence of a city often lies within its lesser-known areas. Joan Roca, CEO and founder of Essentialist, a private service for travelers, suggests doing some prior research but also allowing yourself to wander freely when you feel secure enough to do so.

“Unfold that map and identify the major attractions along with what feels familiar,” he advises. “Then shift your gaze to the less familiar spots on the map. Maybe it’s a green area . . . or a labyrinth of streets that intrigue you, away from the usual tourist paths.”

Think About Your Travel Timing

Valuable connections are often found during the quieter hours of the day and in the off-peak seasons, as I discovered on a serene morning visit to St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City with my baby. “Choosing to travel in the low season,” Roca suggests, “can help you steer clear of both crowds and tourist traps.”