Many popular tourist destinations have hidden gems that are often overlooked by visitors. To find hidden gems, it’s often best to talk to locals or do some research online.
Many cities have local blogs or forums that can provide tips on places to visit that are off the beaten path and many cities have walking tours or bike tours that can take you to places that aren’t in the guidebooks. You can also try to find places that are popular with locals but not with tourists.
For example, if you’re in New York City, try visiting the Brooklyn Museum instead of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Or, if you’re in Barcelona, visit the Tibidabo Amusement Park instead of the more crowded Sagrada Familia, the most visited attraction in Barcelona.
The amusement park is located on Mount Tibidabo and offers stunning views of the city. It’s also home to the oldest carousel in the world as well as a number of other vintage rides. And, unlike the Sagrada Familia, it’s usually not too crowded, so you can enjoy the rides and the views without fighting the crowds.
In Paris, you can avoid the crowds at the Eiffel Tower and instead visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, which offers stunning views of the city.
In Rome, you can avoid the crowded Vatican Museums and instead visit the Catacombs of Rome, where you can see the underground burial chambers of early Christians.
And in London, you can avoid the crowded Tower of London and instead visit the Barbican Conservatory, a tropical oasis in the middle of the city.
When looking for hidden gems, it’s also important to explore on foot. Get lost in the city and see where the streets take you. You might stumble upon a hidden park, a unique cafe, or a quaint neighborhood. Sometimes, the best way to find the hidden gems of a city is to just walk around and see what you find. And don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. Locals are often happy to share their favorite hidden gems with visitors. By exploring on foot and asking for recommendations, you can find places that few tourists know about. And you might just find your new favorite spot in the city.