Exploring a brand new city thinks like opening a novel you’ve never read—full of mystery, excitement, and discovery. Whether you’re traveling for work, vacation, or perhaps a spontaneous weekend getaway, diving into unfamiliar surroundings comes with a chance to collect memories that serve you for a lifetime. Here’s a go-to guide of things to do in paris.
1. Start With the Icons
Every city has its stars—those must-see landmarks that tell its story. Be it a historic monument, a famous square, or an awe-inspiring skyline view, looking into these attractions gives you context and orientation. Do a quick city highlights tour or hop on a local bus on an affordable overview.
2. Eat Like a Local
Food is a universal language and one of the top ways for connecting with a fresh culture. Skip the chain restaurants and explore local cafés, street vendors, or hidden gems recommended by residents. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a food tour or cooking class to travel deeper into the flavors from the region.
3. Get Lost on Purpose
Put the map away on an hour or two and let curiosity direct you. Wander through side streets, browse corner shops, or arrive at neighborhood art. This is how you discover the soul of your city—the unexpected, unscripted moments that you won’t find in the guidebook.
4. Visit a Local Market
Markets include the heartbeat of your community. From farmers’ stalls to artisan goods, you’ll locate a rich mixture of sights, sounds, and tastes. It's also a fantastic place to pick-up unique souvenirs and connect to locals.
5. Use Public Transport
It probably won't sound glamorous, but public transport comes with a slice-of-life experience. Whether it’s a tram in Lisbon, a subway in New York, or a tuk-tuk in Bangkok, hopping on local transit helps you navigate being a native—and often leads one to parts in the city you wouldn’t otherwise see.
6. Find a Viewpoint
Every city looks completely different from above. Climb a tower, go to a rooftop bar, or locate a hilltop park to take the skyline. It’s the right spot for reflection, photos, or simply watching the planet go by.
7. Tap Into the Culture
Look up what’s happening while you’re in town—live music, art exhibitions, pop-up events, theater, or cultural festivals. Even just visiting a neighborhood museum will offer a powerful glimpse into a city’s identity and history.
8. Make Time for Nature
Urban doesn’t have to mean concrete jungle. Find green space to recharge—whether it’s a botanical garden, riverside walk, or city park to sit with a coffee and people-watch.
9. Talk to People
Locals are often the best guides. Strike up a conversation using your barista, shop owner, or fellow traveler. Ask what their favorite part in the city is—it may lead that you places you’d never think to visit.
10. Capture the Moments
Document your journey with photos, journal entries, and even voice notes. Not just the important sights, though the small things: the smell with the bakery about the corner, the mural you spotted within an alley, the moment you felt totally lost—and totally okay by it.
A new city isn’t only a place—it’s an experience. Be curious, open-minded, and present. Let the streets show you, the locals inspire you, as well as the journey surprise you.