Wandering around any vibrant European city for the first time is an exciting prospect. And while you can certainly enjoy a trip by yourself or with your friends and family, one way to really transform your experience, bringing it to life through the eyes of a native, is to enlist the knowledge of a private local guide.
Find A Local is a platform that can help you discover real local guides in the cities below, and many locations around the world. It is a fabulous way for locals to share their city, culture, and everyday experiences with you, bringing the avenues, plazas, museums and lesser-known sites into more clarity with their support, wisdom and grounded advice. Read on to find six of the finest cities in Europe whose hidden treasures can be uncovered with ease by your charming chaperone.
Naples
First up is Naples; southern Italy’s infamous port city, flanked by the volcanic majesty of Mount Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Fields on either side.
Located to the southeast of Rome, Naples is an underrated Italian gem, bustling with must see sights, not least its UNESCO-listed historic centre. A private guide can open your eyes to the city’s interesting Greek foundations, expected tipping etiquette, changing architectural designs through the ages, or even lead you further afield to get up close with the region’s breath-taking volcanic landscape.
Whatever your interests, Naples can provide, not to mention the world famous Napolitan Pizza. If it’s Italian cuisine that speaks to you, let your guide lead you to the city’s most authentic spots to sample a variety of lesser known, but still mouth-watering, delights such as pizza fritta, crocche potato croquettes, cuoppo seafood vegetables and peppered mussels.
London
The UK’s capital city, London, can be transformed with the help of a private local guide. Step into the fascinating urban jungle and uncover wide-ranging delights with a knowledgeable local. Step back in time and learn about the ancient history of the country’s monarchy, by visiting the magnificent Buckingham Palace and watch The Changing of the Guard. Allow your guide to lead you around the inner city before branching out further afield into the city’s 32 boroughs to gain a real insight into the eclectic, multicultural areas of Westminster, Kensington, Camden, Hackney and Sutton.
Football enthusiasts can take a guided look around the internationally renowned grounds of Hammersmith and Fulham. Local guides can also introduce you to London’s Michelin starred eateries from Chelsea’s Restaurant Gordon Ramsey, Soho’s Humble Chicken and Shoreditch’s The Clove Club. Knowing where to look is key to uncovering London’s hidden treasures and a private local guide can do just this.
Budapest
Although incredibly well-known as Hungary’s most heavily populated city, Budapest has a plethora of unknown gems which a private local guide can wow you with. Budapest comprises the previously separate cities of Obuda and Pest, and is home to a variety of markets, eateries, nightlife, museums, events, architecture and activities to suit all travellers.
Ever had the urge for an icy cold beer, during a dip in the bath? Whether your answer is a yes or no, Budapest is the place to try it out. You can check out the Thermal Beer Spa and enjoy a frosty beverage while submerged in healing thermal water. If water-based activities aren’t your thing, enjoy the city’s elegant side with high tea at the Anantara New York Palace Budapest Hotel, or indulge in a classical music concert at St Michael’s Church. Get lost in the wonder of Buda Castle Labyrinth, with its myriad underground caverns, or drift along the Danube on an evening cruise.
Athens
Steeped in ancient Greek history and brimming with mythological tales of awe about the city’s formation and structure, Athens is the ideal place to enlist a private local guide. Where better to see the local landscape come alive through legends of wonder, cosmic forces, greed and strength, than this fascinating hub of history.
Another UNESCO protected city, Athens offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore, learn and enjoy your city break in the birthplace of Western civilization. Follow your guide through the capital city’s delights, including Constitution Square, the magnificent Acropolis; home of the Parthenon and the miraculous marble Panathenaic Stadium.
After immersing yourself in the ancient bounty of Athen’s architecture, you can take a stroll through Plaka neighbourhood, the oldest area of continuous habitation in Europe. Athens will leave you full of awe and satisfaction, it is not to be missed.
Orleans
Known as Joan of Arc’s city, Orleans is the next location that will be transformed through the eyes of a private local guide. The Parisian charm of France’s capital cannot be undervalued, however Orleans offers a glimpse into a relatively unknown region of the country, with a fascinating history and culture.
Fully experience the city’s historical significance by visiting in late April, when the yearly Joan of Arc Festival celebrates the heroine’s role in freeing the city during the Hundred Years War. Located on the banks of the river Loire, city trips here can be topped off with a tranquil Loire valley boat ride, providing peaceful perspectives of the ancient city.
Warsaw
Last up is the hidden gem of Warsaw, another city on our list which is jam packed with UNESCO heritage wonders that are sure to educate, engage and energise any visitor. Allow a private local guide to transform your visit by leading you through the Polish capital’s Old Town, steeped in charming architectural highlights that have been constructed since its early beginnings in the 13th century.
After enjoying true Polish hospitality in the city’s centre, venture further afield on day trips to the fascinating Wieliczka Salt Mines, the stunning Kapinos National Park, or pay your respects at the memorial site of Auschwitz.
Final thoughts
Whichever of these top six European cities you choose to visit, your experience is sure to be elevated to a higher level with a private local guide. Profit from their enthusiasm, and feel reassured and relaxed as you immerse yourself in the wonders that these cities have to hold.
