Avoid Tourist Traps in Any City

How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Any European City

Visiting a new city is exciting, but nothing ruins a trip faster than falling for overpriced, underwhelming tourist traps. Knowing how to spot and avoid these common pitfalls will make your trip so much more enjoyable. Here are our seven ways to steer clear of tourist traps in any city.

1. Avoid Restaurants with a Waiter Calling You In

If someone is standing outside a restaurant, waving you in, it’s usually a red flag. Many of these places target tourists with inflated prices, mediocre food, and rushed service. Instead, do a little research: look for spots where locals are actually eating or check Google and TripAdvisor reviews before sitting down. In cities like Rome or Paris, finding a great meal off the beaten path can completely change your experience.

2. Skip Taxis Waiting Outside Tourist Attractions

Taxis parked outside major sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum, often charge way above normal rates. If you need a ride, use a ride-hailing app like Uber, Bolt, or Free Now, or walk a few blocks away from the main attraction to hail a standard cab. Many cities, including London and Vienna, also have excellent public transport that’s often a faster and cheaper option.

3. Overpriced Rooftop Bars? Find a Local Favorite Instead

Sky-high views often come with sky-high prices—many rooftop bars near tourist hotspots charge for the view, not the quality. As an alternative, ask a local bartender for their recommendation or do a quick search for hidden cocktail bars or scenic spots with reasonable prices. In Berlin and Budapest, many great bars offer amazing city views without the tourist markup.

4. Don’t Book Without Checking Reviews

Before booking a tour, museum ticket, or restaurant, always check reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or GetYourGuide. Many places look great in ads but offer disappointing experiences. Be especially cautious of experiences with no reviews or all five-star ratings, as these could be fake. In cities like Amsterdam and Prague, many overpriced “cultural” experiences are just tourist traps in disguise.

5. Avoid Shops with “Authentic Souvenirs” close to Major Attractions

The closer a shop is to a landmark, the less authentic (and more expensive) the souvenirs tend to be. Instead of buying mass-produced items near the Big Ben or the Vatican, head to local markets or artisan shops in less touristy neighborhoods. In Lisbon or Florence, you’ll find high-quality, handcrafted souvenirs that are actually worth bringing home.

6. Beware of “Skip-the-Line” Scams

Many attractions, from the Louvre to the Sagrada Família, have official fast-track tickets, but scammers often sell fake “skip-the-line” passes at inflated prices near entrances. Always book directly through the official website or a trusted platform like GetYourGuide or Tiqets. Keep in mind: if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

7. Follow the Locals

One of the best ways to avoid tourist traps is to follow the locals. If a restaurant is full of tourists and has an English-only menu, it’s probably not the amazing authentic experience you’re looking for. Instead, head to spots where locals eat, shop, and hang out. Neighborhoods like Shoreditch in London, Kreuzberg in Berlin, or Trastevere in Rome offer amazing local experiences away from the crowds.

Bonus Tip: Explore Smarter with Lokalyst!

Avoiding tourist traps doesn’t mean skipping all major attractions. Instead, it’s about being savvy with your choices. By researching in advance, trusting locals, and looking beyond the obvious, you’ll get a more authentic and enjoyable experience in any city.

Do you want insider recommendations for the best places to eat, drink, and explore in top European cities? without worrying about tourists traps? The check out Lokalyst’s expertly curated city trip guides!