AAWARAGANG

Now, sometimes all we get is one day in a city. You may be on a layover, passing through on a road trip or even just taking a little adventure over the weekend. The good news is: even if you don’t have 48 hours, you can still have an epic time in 24 hours.

Read on to learn how to do a one day city travel the right way without feeling rushed, exhausted or like you missed out.

1. 🗺️ Do a Little Planning, But Keep It Flexible

Before you go, do a quick scan of the city:

• What’s it known for?
• What’s walkable or close together?
• Are there any cool local experiences happening (markets, festivals, live shows)?

Use Google Maps or an app like Rome2Rio to visualize your route and plan smart. Prioritize 2–3 “must-see” spots, then allow the rest of the day to flow naturally.

✨ Pro Tip: Follow a local blogger or check Instagram location tags to find hidden gems!

2. ☀️ Start Early – Catch the City Wake Up

The vibe is totally different in cities in the morning. If you can, pick a local breakfast or coffee spot that isn’t on the tourist path. Chat with the barista. Watch the city come alive.

Not only do you avoid the crowds, but you get a real sense of the rhythm of the place.

3. 🎟️ Pick Experiences Over Just Sights

Instead of ticking off every landmark, pick experiences.

• A street food tour
• A local guide walking or bike tour
• A trip to a peculiar museum or market

The photos in front of famous buildings are not what make a trip memorable, it’s the moments.

4. 🍴 Taste the Local Flavor

Don’t waste a meal on something you can get back home. Search for:

• The best-rated local dish
• A place locals swear by (even if it’s a hole in the wall)
• A rooftop or café with a view for lunch or dinner

And yes, dessert counts as culture.

5. 📸 Don’t Overshoot – Be in the Moment

Yes, take photos! But try this:

• Take a few, then put the phone away
• Capture sounds, smells, and small details in your memory

You’ll remember how you felt more than the perfect Instagram shot.

6. 🚶 Walk the City If You Can

Walking lets you:

• Find cool corners, murals, street performers
• Experience the city’s speed and character
• Spontaneous moments (and snacks!) stumble upon.

Rideshares and public transport should only be used if it saves serious time or energy.

7. 🌇 End with a View or a Vibe

Wind down your day with something that makes you feel like, “Yup, this was worth it.” Could be:

• A sunset spot
• A river walk or night market
• A chill bar or live music scene

Let the city say goodbye in its own way.

🧳 Final Thought: One Day is Enough… If You’re Fully In It

Don’t worry about what you didn’t do. Rather, focus on what you did experience, and how you felt about it. A whole checklist of places is not as valuable as one perfect moment.

Travel is not about completing a list, it is about collecting stories.

Have you ever done a one day city trip before? What are your best tips or favorite experiences? Let me know in the comments! Or maybe let me know where you’re going next city.

Happy travels ✈️🌍