World Tourism Day 2026: 5 secrets to travelling like a local

Visit a supermarket

Instead of heading straight to souvenir shops, visit a local supermarket. It’s an easy way to discover everyday snacks, drinks, and products locals actually buy

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Check the local calendar

Before travelling, look up local festivals, markets and public holidays. You could experience a city during an event that most tourist guides don`t mention

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Find the neighbourhood shops

Skip famous food chains and ask a local where they buy their morning bread, coffee or favourite snack. Small neighbourhood spots often reveal local food culture

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Take the first train or bus

Early public transport can show you a completely different side of a city — markets opening, workers commuting and streets coming alive before tourists arrive

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Visit a local library or bookshop

A neighbourhood bookshop can reveal what people read, what the city cares about and local history that you may not find in conventional tourist guides

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