Learn about all the different tour types available to travelers when visiting a new destination.
Tours are activities that should not be missing from your travel agenda to enjoy your destination to the fullest. When visiting a new city, there are several types of tours available to explore and experience the local culture, history and attractions. Below I will show you a list of some common types of tours that you can look for on your next trip or vacation.
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We recommend that you visit sites like Viator.com to explore options in the destination for your next vacation trip.
1. Walking Tours
Guided walking tours will take you through the city’s streets, landmarks, and neighborhoods. This allows for a more intimate exploration of the city. We recommend doing this type of tour during the first or second day of your stay to get a better idea of the entire city in general. Paris is an example of the type of city that you will never get tired of walking through its streets.
2. Bus Tours
Hop On, Hop Off bus tours offer a convenient way to see a city’s top attractions. Passengers can hop on and off at different stops to explore specific areas of interest. Booking this option can serve as a mode of “transportation” for a day or two. You can book these bus tours on sites like Viator as well.
3. Bike Tours
For a more active experience, bike tours take you around the city on two wheels. This is a great way to cover more ground than walking while still enjoying the scenery. Imagine touring the outskirts of Amsterdam by bike. Before booking this type of tour, please consider your physical condition.
4. Boat Tours
If the city has a river, cannel, lake, or coastline, boat or cruise tours offer a unique perspective and a relaxing way to see the sights. Depending on the city, these tours can show architecture in cities like a canal cruise in Amsterdam, or can provide a general view of the entire city like, Miami’s Skyline Cruise.
5. Food Tours (My favorite!)
Culinary tours focus on the local gastronomic variety. Participants can try traditional dishes, visit markets and learn about the city’s culinary history. In my opinion these tours are the best, for example what better than getting to know Barcelona through its famous tapas!
6. History and Art Tours
These tours delve into the city’s past, exploring historic sites, museums and landmarks to provide insight into its cultural and historical significance. Guided art tours will take you to museums, galleries and public art installations, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic and cultural heritage. These types of tours are excellent in cities like London that offer World War II tours or when visiting Bristol, you have to take a tour to see Banksy’s street art.
7. Nocturnal Tours
Some cities come to life at night, and night tours offer the opportunity to explore the city’s nightlife, illuminated sites, and perhaps even haunted or ghost tours. New York is a great example of cities that offer a lot of nightlife.
8. Private/Personalized Tours
Many tour operators offer custom or private tours, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and schedule. If you are traveling with a large group this is a great option. Organizations like ToursByLocals.com are a great place to find the most experienced guides and book your private tour.
9. Day Trip Tours
When traveling to a city, we always recommend knowing its surroundings. Taking a day or two to do a Day Trip Tour is an excellent option to learn more. For example, when traveling to a city like Lisbon, Portugal, you cannot miss the opportunity to see its coasts and castles.
Conclusion
Remember online platforms such as Viator are great for finding out about specific tour options available in the city you are visiting. Each type of tour offers a different way to discover and enjoy the destination. It is best to have a tour or activity already planned each day to make the most of your trip.
Want More Tips! Check out other travel tips in the following blogs
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