Wandering on your own is part of the backpacking magic. But every now and then, the right tour can take your trip to the next level..... Maybe you want a local’s insight, a structured experience, or a convenient way to see a place without the hassle of planning everything yourself. That’s where tours come in.
Tours aren’t just for cruise ship crowds or resort-goers anymore. Today’s travel backpackers have access to flexible, affordable, and enriching tour options and many are even tailored for spontaneous, budget-conscious adventurers. Whether you’re diving into the history of a new city or planning an epic day trip out of town, there’s a tour (and an app) for that.
1. Free Walking Tours
Free Walking Tours are Best for Orientation and Local Insights
Free walking tours are often the first thing backpackers do in a new city. You’ll meet other travelers, get oriented with the city layout, and hear quirky local facts you won’t find in any guidebook. These tours usually run on a “pay-what-you-wish” model, which makes them perfect for budget travelers.
🔍 Best App for Free Walking Tours: GuruWalk
GuruWalk connects travelers with local guides offering free walking tours in cities around the world. You can browse reviews, book a spot, and meet your guide at a central location. Some tours focus on history, others on street art, food, or hidden corners... perfect for backpackers wanting a deeper cultural connection.
💡 TIP for Free Walking Tours: Take a city walking tour in the morning... you’ll not only learn about the city, but you might also meet a few fellow solo travelers to grab lunch with afterward. Ask your guide for a local restaurant recommendation and keep the conversation going.
🎒 PACK for Free Walking Tours: Stay secure in crowded areas with an RFID-blocking travel wallet to protect your cards while keeping cash handy for tipping your guide.
2. Self-Guided Audio Tours
Self-Guided Audio Tours are Best for Flexibility and Going Solo
Maybe you want to explore at your own pace or avoid crowds. That’s where self-guided tours come in. These let you roam a city or attraction while following a map and listening to audio commentary... no scheduling, no group waiting.
🔍 Best App for Self-Guided Audio Tours: AllTours
AllTours is an easy-to-use app that offers self-guided walking tours in major cities around the world. With GPS integration and entertaining narration, you’ll feel like you’ve got a tour guide in your pocket. Ideal for slow travelers who prefer to wander without a fixed itinerary.
💡 TIP for Self-Guided Audio Tours: Download your tour in advance in case you’re offline or don’t want to use data.
🎒 PACK for Self-Guided Audio Tours: Bring a crossbody travel bag for easy access to your phone, earbuds, and city map without having to stop and unpack every few blocks.
3. Day Trips & Excursions
Day Trips & Excursions are Best for Big Sights Outside the City
Some destinations have incredible sights just outside their urban core—think volcano hikes, ancient ruins, wine regions, or epic waterfalls. Day tours are a great way to experience these without needing your own transport or doing tons of research.
🔍 Best App for Day Trips: GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide offers a massive selection of activities and excursions. From guided hikes and boat tours to skip-the-line museum access and cooking classes, it’s a go-to for curated experiences with reputable operators. You can read reviews, compare prices, and even cancel with full refunds up to 24 hours before.
💡 TIP for Day Trips and Excursions: Best for places where the sites like Iceland’s Golden Circle, Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, and Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
🎒 PACK for Day Trips and Excursions: Don’t forget your collapsible water bottle to stay hydrated during long bus rides or outdoor adventures—then fold it down to save space in your pack.
Choose the Right Tour:
- Read reviews before booking; especially with independent guides.
- Check the cancellation policy in case your plans change.
- Look for small group or local-run tours for more authentic experiences.
- Bring cash for tipping on free tours.
- Download maps or audio tours ahead of time if you’re going off-grid.
Tours aren’t a sign of being “touristy” anymore.. they’re tools that enhance your journey and experience. You're not committed to a week long tour group, but just a few hours. From free walking tours that connect you with locals, to self-paced audio tours that let you explore independently, and full-day adventures that take you far off the beaten path... there’s a perfect option for every travel backpacker.
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