As travel enthusiasts, we’re always chasing those breathtaking vistas, culinary adventures, and cultural experiences that make our wanderlust insatiable. But there’s one major travel woe that can quickly sap the joy out of even the most epic destinations – hordes of tourists. From seemingly endless lines to shoving matches on crowded streets, dealing with throngs of fellow travelers is nobody’s idea of a relaxing vacation.
The good news? With some savvy planning and a few insider tips, you can beat the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the world’s most iconic attractions without feeling like you’re trapped in a human stampede. Here’s how to soak up all the wonder without the maddening masses.
It’s no secret that summer and major holiday periods are peak times for tourism just about everywhere. But if your schedule allows it, consider visiting during the off-season or shoulder seasons when crowds are thinner. Beyond avoiding a sea of people, you’ll likely score better deals on flights and accommodations too. Blissfully crowd-free destinations like Portugal’s charming cities in November or the stunning vistas of the American National Parks in early spring await the savvy traveler.
Certain holidays basically guarantee an onslaught of tourists in some locales. Steer clear of places celebrating major festivals or events unless you’re actually traveling for that reason. In the US, long weekends for holidays like Memorial Day or Presidents Day also see surges of domestic travelers. Whenever possible, structure trips during mid-week periods when business travelers are the main crowd. You’ll encounter shorter lines, more available reservations, and an overall more relaxed vibe.
The early bird avoids the tourist hordes. Make it a point to wake up with the sun and hit major attractions right when they open. Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll be rewarded with that magical feeling of having iconic sites like the Trevi Fountain all to yourself. Then take a mid-day break to relax and refuel when the crowds and the heat are the highest. Head back out in the late afternoon and evening when the day-tripping crowds have dispersed. Many cities take on an entirely different, more authentic ambiance at night.
Branch out from the typical tourist trails and you’ll uncover crowd-free gems. Use travel guidebooks and apps to research neighborhoods where locals actually live and socialize. From quaint residential pockets of major cities to “second cities” like Porto or Bologna that fly under the radar, getting off the beaten path rewards travelers with a richer cultural immersion. You could even plan entire trips around less-visited destinations like North Dakota’s underrated Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
The advent of online booking has been a game-changer for avoiding crowds. Many popular museums, tours, and other attractions now offer timed-entry tickets or expedited entry for those who plan ahead. Not only can you skip the line chaos, but you can opt for first-entry or after-hours time slots when sites are less mobbed. For key attractions with limited capacity, booking tours with knowledgeable local guides is a savvy way to gain access to hidden gems that mass-market groups can’t access.
Steer clear of public transportation and popular restaurants during predictable peak hours when they’re crammed with commuters and crowds. Do some research to learn when the locals dine, then plan your meals an hour before or after the biggest rushes. Exploring cities on foot is ideal for avoiding buses and subways stuffed with riders during conventional rush hours. Opt for ride shares overcrowded trains and metros when you need to get somewhere fast.
To avoid long lines in the airport, consider signing up for TSA Precheck or Global Entry. If returning to the U.S. from abroad, utilize the free Mobile Passport App to make Customs a breeze.
Ultimately, avoiding travel crowds comes down to bucking conventional schedules and being strategic about your timing and transportation. With some clever planning and a little flexibility, you can turn even the world’s hottest destinations into your own personal paradise. What are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring… crowd-free!
Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read about our recent Italian Adventure, check out our La Dolce Vita Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.
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Last year the experts hit home how important it is to travel light and be carry-on only. Rick Steves also talked about avoiding crowds when you travel by traveling off-season and when that is not possible, getting out early and late. Avoid being in the tourist areas in the middle of the day. He inspired me to plan a trip to some of those crowded European cities that I want to see, but have been avoiding because of the crowds. As he said, there is a reason everyone wants to go there. After his talk, I had him sign one of his books for me.
