Experience Destinations Like a Local – The Ultimate Guide

1. Start with the journey, not just the destination

It’s not just where you go, it’s how you get there. GoOpti’s reliable and flexible transfers get you closer to off-the-beaten-path locations where you will find authentic travel experiences. Choose shared or private transfers, schedule pick-up times that suit your plans, and enjoy a smooth ride without the stress of transport logistics. You can find additional tips for stress free traveling here.

2. Stay where locals live

Tourist hotels are often located in the heart of the most crowded areas, and while they offer convenience, they’re not reflective of everyday life. Staying in a local neighbourhood gives you the chance to live like a local and get away from the tourist hustle. Platforms like Airbnb, small guesthouses, or family-run B&Bs offer a more authentic home base than chain hotels in the city centre.

3. Eat where the menu isn’t in English

Local cuisine is the heart of any culture. Skip the flashy restaurants on the main square and wander a few streets away. Look for places packed with locals, short menus, handwritten chalkboards, and non-English menus. Just point to one thing on the menu and hope for the best.

4. Use local transportation

GoOpti can take you between cities and airports, but within them, try going local whenever possible. Besides buses, trams or metro, one of the best ways to explore a city like a local is on foot or by bike. Ditch the strict itinerary and allow yourself to get lost.

5. Visit local markets

Markets are places where locals gather. They reflect the daily life and traditions of a place. You’ll see how locals shop, what they eat, and how they interact. You will get a chance to taste local dishes, fresh produce, and street food.

Compared to tourist shops or restaurants, markets often offer better prices for both food and goods. They often feature handmade and locally produced goods, giving you a chance to find one-of-a-kind items that you won’t see in chain stores.

6. Join a local tour or workshop

Want to understand a place? Try a skill that locals cherish. Whether it’s pasta-making in Bologna, cooking class in Paris where you can learn to bake the French Croissant or kayak hidden shores in Greece, these experiences help you connect deeper with the culture and often lead to the best conversations of your trip.

You can look for experiences on platforms like Airbnb Experiences, GetYourGuide, or even ask your accommodation host if they recommend someone local.

7. Learn a few words of the language

You don’t need to be fluent, but learning a few key phrases like “hello,” “please,” and “thank you” can show respect to the local culture, and locals often respond with warmth when they see you're trying. Show genuine curiosity and be mindful of local customs. Respect quiet hours and dress codes, especially in religious or rural areas.

8. Slow down

You don’t need to see everything and hop from sight to sight. The best travel memories often come from unplanned moments. We recommend you slow down, be present in the moment and enjoy your surroundings.

You’re more likely to remember the smell of a bakery, a chat with a shopkeeper, or the sound of a local musician. These small details often become the most cherished memories.

At GoOpti, we make sure you get to your destination with ease, so you can focus on what really matters – making real connections, not just checking boxes. Wherever you go, we help you travel smoothly and sustainably. Book your ride now.