Local Tours in 2025: How to Book Them and What to Expect

Tired of just sightseeing?
Local tours let you experience cities like a local — from food walks and art classes to hidden historical tours.
In 2025, more travelers are booking unique experiences with local guides via easy-to-use platforms.
Here’s how to do it right.

1. What Is a Local Tour?

A local tour is a small group or private experience hosted by a local expert or guide.
These can include culinary experiences, city walks, bike tours, craft-making, or photography walks.
It’s one of the best ways to connect with a culture beyond sightseeing.

2. Top Platforms to Book Local Tours

KLOOK: Great for Asia; supports Korean, real-time mobile tickets
KKday: Offers bundle deals with passes or transport
GetYourGuide: Strong in Europe and the Americas; high-quality guides
Airbnb Experiences: Ideal for artsy or niche experiences hosted by locals

3. Booking Tips

- Read real traveler reviews
- Confirm tour language (English, local, or Korean guide)
- Check what’s included (meals, transport, entry fees)
- Look into cancellation policies (usually 24–48 hours)

4. Popular Local Tour Examples

- Tokyo: Sushi-making with a master chef
- Paris: Macaron class in Montmartre
- Rome: Underground crypt night tour
- Bangkok: Street food walking tour

5. Real Reviews from Travelers

“I took a flamenco class in Seville via Airbnb — unforgettable and super fun!”
“The KLOOK temple tour in Kyoto was extremely well organized and informative.”
“A food tour in Hanoi let me discover spots I’d never find on my own.”

6. Final Advice

Book early — popular tours sell out fast.
Always communicate with the host for meet-up details.
Use mobile tickets where possible.
Local tours aren’t just extras — they’re often the most memorable part of the trip.