To many of us, travel is more than a bucket list and flags in our social media bios; it’s about the memories, the lessons, and the new people we become after coming back home. In this article, I will share with you how to make travel a truly cultural experience. And stick with me, because culture isn’t only found in museums and monuments; it’s in the ordinary, in people’s everyday lives, in their food, traditions, and daily commutes to work.

Plan a longer trip

A weekend trip is less likely to offer you a cultural experience. And I know that you’d think a couple of days packed with cultural activities and/or tours will somehow give you at least a glimpse of the local culture, which could be true. But in most cases, you will be accessing the stereotypical culture that is marketed by your country of destination instead of the actual local culture.

Stay where the culture lives

Instead of chain hotels, choose accommodation that reflects local life. Guesthouses, riads, eco-lodges, or homestays allow you to experience the atmosphere of the community. In Morocco, for example, staying in a riad inside the medina is completely different from a modern hotel—it immerses you in centuries-old architecture, design, and traditions.

Pro tip: Look for safe places and hosts who offer stories, history, or cooking demonstrations. That’s where culture shines.

Food is a big part of every culture

I know it’s tempting and convenient to choose the food chains that you usually know and trust. However, food is one of your easiest ways to get a taste of the culture. The spices used, the cooking techniques, the ingredients, and much more tell you a lot about the country. Many people fear that street food vendors and street markets lack quality control, which could be very true, and that is why I would highly recommend a local cooking class or workshop. You can either find those on Get Your Guide, or you can ask your host for local recommendations.

Start conversations with locals

This will be easier in some countries and harder in others. As a Moroccan who lives in the Czech Republic, I can tell you that starting a conversation in Morocco as a tourist is much easier than talking to a Czech person. However, you can always try. And your step one in this is to learn some basic conversational words and phrases. “Hello,” “thank you,” and “how much?” in the local language would open doors for you everywhere because locals will appreciate the effort.

Attend local festivals and events if available

A little Google search goes a long way. Timing your trip with religious holidays, music festivals, or seasonal harvests could show you a culture at its most vibrant. And while I can’t guarantee that you’ll be the only tourist there, I can assure you that many locals are going to be attending. You will see what it looks like to celebrate a certain occasion and what the traditions are like.

Shopping at local markets instead of malls

Again, malls are safe, you wouldn’t have to negotiate the prices, and you have a guarantee that what you’re buying is worth its price because of a brand name and reputation. But markets, workshops, and artisan studios are gateways into centuries of cultural knowledge. Buying a handwoven carpet, a piece of pottery, or a hand-beaded garment directly from the artisan not only supports the community but also gives you a tangible piece of culture to carry home. You will also be able to see the process of creation and interact with a local while you’re at it.

Have a slower trip

Sit in a café, observe daily routines, and join conversations—and you’ll notice subtle layers of community life. This is the essence of cultural travel, where depth matters more than speed.

Attach your travel to a purpose

Look for a seasonal job, volunteer, or go on an ecotourism trip or a cultural exchange. These experiences allow you to give back while learning in return. It could be helping on a farm, joining a conservation project, or teaching a skill. Purpose-driven travel deepens your connection to the place and its people.

Conclusion

The best way to make travel a cultural experience is to shift your mindset. Don’t just be a visitor—be a participant. Eat where locals eat, learn their greetings, join their festivals, and listen to their stories.

Next time you plan a trip, choose even one of these tips to start with. You’ll return not only with memories and photos, but also with a deeper understanding of the world and your place in it.