The hunt for ‘authentic’ travel is becoming more and more pressing, with many destinations becoming more of a tourist trap than a genuine experience.
A new study has revealed which global destinations offer the most authentic local travel experiences – and which are the worst culprits for gimmicky, overpriced attractions.
InsureandGo trawled through 1.3 million Google Maps reviews, searching for the number of people who used words like ‘local’ and ‘authentic’, and found where had the least complaints about it being too touristy.
The insurance company used these findings to reveal the top 10 authentic destinations in Europe.
Topping the list is Marseille in France.
Although it’s perhaps not the first French location that springs to mind, it’s still a valid and exciting city.
Nine other cities made the list – here’s the full rundown…
Marseille, France
City of Marseille harbour and Notre Dame de la Garde church on the hill
Marseille’s working-port neighbourhoods feel lived-in rather than curated for tourists.
This offers visitors a genuine insight into what life is like for locals in one of France’s most multicultural centres.
Unlike more tourist-filled hubs in the country, Marseille is a great place to go for a truly authentic French experience.
Warsaw, Poland
The castle square in Warsaw overlooking the Old Town in spring
In Poland, Warsaw’s blend of modern culture, due to rebuilding after World War II, and conscious preservation of tradition, helps it rank second place in Europe’s most authentic cities.
Warsaw’s reconstructed Old Town contributes to its score.
Travellers here often report feeling like they are getting a true sense of what it’s like to live there, as they explore its narrow, cobbled streets.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Historical center of old Tbilisi, with baths and Juma mosque, in Georgia
Rounding out the top three is Tbilisi in Georgia.
Tbilisi’s wine bars, sulphur baths and distinctive architecture contribute to its overall beauty and authentic appeal.
The city’s centuries-old winemaking and neighbourhood bakeries serving fresh khachapuri also come together to create experiences that feel genuinely Georgian.
Porto, Portugal
Views of the city of Porto in the summer, a popular Portuguese destination
Porto’s riverside neighbourhoods help cement its reputation for authenticity among other European hotspots.
Port wine lodges and azulejo-covered buildings give visitors what they feel represents a true slice of northern Portuguese life.
It’s a great place to taste Portuguese food and drink, too – as well as explore its beautiful views.
Lyon, France
The city of Lyon draws in travellers looking for both beauty and authenticity
France is well represented in the list, with Lyon also ranking within the European top five authentic cities.
Known for its historic districts, it has one of the lowest tourist trap rates in the report.
This makes it easy to feel like you are experiencing the city in a true-to-life way.
Vilnius City Old Town at sunset in Lithuania, a cheap travel spot
Lithuanian capital Vilnius was found to have the lowest price for a two-night trip for two people out of 15 European destinations analysed by Post Office Travel Money, it was recently revealed.
Low prices make it appealing as a destination – as does the city’s authentic appeal.
With a beautiful old town and history to explore, it’s a great way to avoid overtourism.
Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is a favourite of travellers seeking genuinely good-value city breaks
The Polish city of Gdańsk is a port city located on the Baltic Sea.
It is famous for its meticulously reconstructed Old Town – as well as its deep history.
It’s full of attractions to see – and, most significantly, retains an authentic Polish atmosphere for holidaymakers seeking a more authentic travel experience.
Naples, Italy
Naples and its harbour with a view of Mount Vesuvius in the background
Naples is far from an unheard-of gem: it’s one of the best places in the world for authentic Italian food.
It’s also full of history and true Italian culture, bringing it into the top 10.
Naples is a chaotic Italian city offering an unfiltered cultural experience – filled with pizza and lots of noise.
Frankfurt, Germany
The skyline of Frankfurt, with Eiserner Steg Bridge and a church
Some German cities are popular with tourists, and Frankfurt is a great place to go if you want to sample the best of its culture.
Taste Apfelwein (apple wine), cheese and meat, delicacies that give a real taste of Germany.
No authentic Frankfurt trip is complete without tasting its its famous sausages.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled island, set against the magnificent mountainous views
The Top 10 Most Authentic Destinations in Europe Marseille, FranceWarsaw, Poland Tbilisi, Georgia Porto, PortugalLyon, FranceVilnius, Lithuania Gdańsk, PolandNaples, Italy Frankfurt, GermanyLake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia isn’t the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip for many of us – but that’s a mistake.
The stunning Lake Bled, located in the Julian Alps, Slovenia, is famous for its fairytale scenery.
It’s easily accessible from the country’s capital Ljubljana, and offers a deeply authentic Slovenian experience.
Letitia Smith, head of communications at InsureandGo, said: ‘With overtourism rife around the world, travellers are increasingly seeking more authentic experiences when they head abroad.
‘From sampling local foods to meeting locals and understanding different cultures, it’s these more genuine moments that stand out and make a trip feel more meaningful.
‘Our authenticity index looks at real reviews from tourist attractions and eateries around the world, to pinpoint the cities where travellers are most and least likely to find these kinds of experiences.’
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