How to Avoid Tourist Traps

When you're in a new city—especially one as visited as Paris, Rome, or Barcelona—it's easy to fall into tourist traps. The laminated menus, the all-day hours, the servers beckoning you in from the street. They're tempting when you're tired and hungry. But the food? Usually forgettable.

Here’s how to avoid the gimmicks and eat the way locals do—well, and with intention.

1. Walk Away from the Attractions

If you can see the Eiffel Tower from your seat, you’re paying for the view—not the food. As a rule, walk at least three blocks from any major tourist site. This alone weeds out 80% of the overpriced, underwhelming spots.

2. Follow the Smell, Not the Signs (or people luring you in)

You want the scent of garlic, onions, or something sizzling in butter. That’s a better indicator than flashy signs or a big "We Speak English" banner. Trust your nose.

If someone is standing outside the restaurant with menus and calling out to people walking by - that is a huge red flag. Keep walking.

3. Mind the Hours

Research your location to determine the typical eating windows. For example, in Spain, you won’t find restaurants open until at least 8 pm for dinner.

Additionally, local restaurants rarely stay open all day. In many European cities, you’ll find a lunch window and then a break before dinner starts around 7 or 8pm. Places open from 11am to midnight with no break? Likely catering to tourists.

4. Check the Menu Length (and Language)

Ten dishes? Great. Two hundred? Run.

Look for menus that are focused and written in the local language. A menu in six languages with food photos is trying to appeal to everyone, which often means it satisfies no one.

Use translating apps such as Google to navigate the menu.

5. Listen to the Room

If most of the guests are speaking the local language, you’re in the right place. Bonus points if the restaurant is filled with people who look like they’re there for a slow, chatty meal—not rushing in and out.

6. Ask the Right People

Your hotel concierge can be a great resource, especially at smaller, boutique properties. Or ask your travel advisor (hi, that’s me). We have vetted lists and insider favorites in cities across Europe.

7. Try These Phrases

If you're ready to explore but want to feel a bit more confident, here are a few useful lines:

- "Un tavolo per due, per favore." – A table for two, please (Italian)

- "Nous voudrions commander, s’il vous plaît." – We’d like to order, please (French)

- "¿Qué recomienda?" – What do you recommend? (Spanish)

Need Help Finding Local Spots?

If you’re planning a trip, reach out. I can help you avoid the tourist menus and get straight to the good stuff—no guesswork required.