2018 has seen a shift in the way people travel. Movements towards responsible and ethical travel experiences are revolutionizing the travel industry, and right there with it is a trend to seek out more meaningful experiences, and focus on local travel.

And by local travel I don’t mean exploring your own backyard (though there’s a case to be made for that too!), I mean delving deeper into a country or city, and escaping the typical tourist circuit and main landmarks.

Really being able to experience a city … and here’s the buzz word … like a local!

We’re not all fortunate enough to have friends based in every city, but in terms of having access to someone who can show you the real side of their city, there’s definitely something to be said for paying a local to show you around.

This is especially true for a well trodden destination like Paris; private tours in Paris, led by locals, are a great way to experience a city from a more authentic point of view.

Why Private Tours in Paris are the Best Way to Explore

Advantages of Private Tours

A common trap many travelers fall victim to (myself included) is traveling to a destination just because people say to.

“You have to go to Paris” they say. “You have to see the Eiffel Tower”. “You have to go to the Moulin Rouge”.

At this point, FOMO (fear of missing out) kicks in, and that’s exactly what you do. But many people do and see things just for the sake of it, without having given much thought to their interests.

And that’s one of the biggest advantages of being shown around by a local, on a private tour that can be customized specifically to you.

If you only stick to the main sites of Paris, you’ll come away with the notion that it’s over-hyped and far too touristy. Which is not OK, because the city has a lot more depth than a snapping a quick selfie in front of a building.

Taking a private tour means you can cater it to your interests, whether that’s food, art, or WWII history. You can speak to your guide directly instead of trying to shout questions over 30 people taking selfies, and have proper conversations with them; after-all you’re the center of their attention.

Advantages of Being Shown Around by a Local

There’s a marked difference between joining a walking tour where the guide regurgitates facts and figures they’ve been forced to memorize from a guide book, and being shown around by someone who truly knows their city.

Instead of being told that the Eiffel tower is 324 meters tall and weigher 10,100 tonnes (because let’s be honest, who cares), a local expert will tell you how to skip the queues.

With a mischievous grin, she’ll say “This is how we sneak in”.

Being shown around Paris by a local isn’t about learning facts you’ll forget tomorrow, it’s about uncovering the secrets of the city and becoming equipped with the tools to enjoy Paris as the Parisians do. And trust me – no-one is more passionate about their city!

If you’re a foodie, there’s no-one better to show you around Paris than a chef. If you’re a literary, there’s no-one better to guide you than a local writer. If you’re passionate about photography, you guessed it – find a local photographer!

And of course, there’s a platform specifically for that.

Where to Find Locals in Paris to Guide You

Localers are a group of Paris locals – historians, photographers, foodies, and fashion designers (to name a few) who are ready and willing to show you around their city.

There’s no-one more invested in making sure you go home with a glowing report of their city, and this is a great way to see the highlights, heritage and culture of Paris in a unique & personal private tour.

Truly catering to every interest, there are a huge range of tours for families, first timers and couples, with themes like museums, food & wine, or a Paris photo shoot. You can take tours that incorporate hidden street art, or join a local cooking class to bake macaroons.

But you can customize your own tour too; from fashion to food, art to architecture, museums to marketplaces – there isn’t an inch of Paris that the community of local guides can’t show you.

So what are you waiting for? Heading to Paris? Browse the range of homemade tours run by local experts on Localers.

Join the local travel revolution.

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Thinking about Paris travel? Having a local guide you through their city is the best way to explore! Click pin through to post to read more.

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.