Where are all the locals?
- Jamie Clark
- Feb 18
- 5 min read
European summers are iconic.
Long sunny days, vibey terraces, late sunsets, and streets that stay lively well into the night. The summer season in Europe draws people in from all over the world, and understandably so.
And part of what makes Europe so idyllic is its' contrast between places. It is magic when, just in a few hours, you can easily move between different languages, cuisines, climates, and ways of life.
Respect to the European Union, who has made travel within continental Europe easier than ever before. And at the same time, each country - and often each city - maintains its own rhythm and character. That variety is what makes traveling here just so much fun.
Now however, travelling here during the summer, there’s something that’s becoming increasing glaring. You arrive in a European city expecting to experience authentic local life, and instead you find streets packed with tourists. Souvenir shops where family-run businesses used to be. A Starbucks instead of the local coffee shop.
You start to wonder - where are all the locals?
In many places, residents are feeling pushed aside by these changes: the constant crowds, noise, changes, rising prices.
So, I am certainly not suggesting to not visit these wonderful places, I would like to share this checklist to serve as a reminder to us all on how to behave like a conscientious visitor, and how to enjoy Europe without overwhelming the very places that make it so special.
1) Look up when you are walking
Following the blue dot on Google Maps can feel necessary, especially in a city you don’t know well. But when you’re focused on your phone in the middle of a busy street, you’re often in someone’s way.
And then, that someone could be a local resident trying to get to work, pick up their kids, or simply move through their daily routine.
Their pace is different from your leisurely walk - understandable.
And so when you’re aware of your surroundings, you move more naturally with the flow of the city. You’re less likely to stop abruptly, block a narrow street, or bump into someone who’s just trying to get through their day.
If you're lost, perhaps just move over to the side of the street, stop, and find your bearings.
2) Learn some of the local language
Learning a few local words really isn't that hard. If you’ve chosen to visit a place, taking interest in the language is part of respecting it.
Simple basics - hello, please, thank you, goodbye - can completely change the vibe of an interaction. It shows that you’re making an effort, even if it’s a small detail. And that effort doesn’t go unnoticed.
It alters the dynamic. Instead of expecting everything to adjust to you, you meet people halfway. And beyond respect, it can also be fun. Picking up a few new words adds another layer to the experience and connects you more closely to the place you’re visiting.
3) Try to avoid walking in big groups
Traveling with a big team can be great. But when you’re moving through narrow streets or busy neighbourhoods, a large group can easily overwhelm the space.
If you’re a group of 10 for example, consider splitting up into teams. Walk in smaller clusters - two teams of 5 - with some distance between you. It allows locals to pass more easily, enter shops, cross streets, and move through their own city without feeling blocked.
The same goes for walking tours. Large tour groups can take over sidewalks and small squares very quickly. Sidenote policy recommendation for European cities: I would suggest capping tours at around 10 people keeps things manageable and less intrusive.
4) Support the local businesses over franchises
There is comfort in the familiar. Walking into Starbucks, McDonald’s, or any of the global brands you recognise guarantees a predictable experience. You know what you’re getting, especially when you’re tired, hungry, and just need something easy.
But those brands don’t choose locations randomly. They move into cities strategically - following data, foot traffic, and tourist flows. They’ll be fine with or without your visit.
The small local businesses are different. They rely far more on the people who walk through their doors. They may not have prime corner locations or big marketing budgets. But they are part of the fabric of the neighbourhood.
Yes ordering from a local café can take a little more effort. The interaction might feel less polished. That's part of the experience. Try the coffee somewhere independent. Sit somewhere family-run. Spend money in the places that reflect the city rather than replicate something you could find anywhere in the world.
5) Smile and be curious
Instead of relying only on your phone for recommendations, ask someone local for their tips. A bartender, a shop owner, the person at the bakery counter. You’d be surprised how enthusiastic people can be when someone shows genuine interest in their city.
A quick question can turn into a conversation. You might discover a place that doesn’t show up on search results, or get a story that adds context to what you’re seeing.
Smile at people. Be mindful of the space you’re in and the rhythm of daily life around you.
And then long after the trip is over, you’ll remember not just the places you saw, but also all of those small interactions and how they made you feel.
and lastly,
6) ENJOY!
Why is this so important to keep in mind?
Europe sees massive influxes of tourists in the peak season: generally in July and August. And in some regions, during peak season, it is possible that every 1 in 2 people staying in the city is a short-term visitor.
The cover photo of this article I took next to the Dom Luis I Bridge, Porto. And more than once, I caught myself wondering: are there any Portuguese left here?
Walking through the city center, I rarely heard Portuguese being spoken. The streets were full, but most of the voices around me were English, French, Spanish, German - everything except the language of the country I was in.
That momentarily changed when we crossed the bridge. On the far side, a group of local teenagers had gathered along the bridge. They were shouting to each other in Portuguese, daring one another to jump into the water below - at least 15 meters down. Each jump was met with cheers, laughter, and louder challenges to go even higher.
That was the most Portuguese I had heard all day - among teenagers, performing for visitors.
Where are the all of the locals?