The 45 travel mistakes to avoid in the world’s most popular cities

Make no mistake, anyone can make a mistake. That’s especially the case in our travels around the world. Even the most experienced travellers get it wrong, and more often than they probably care to admit.

Of course you can have an entirely rewarding time in a major world city when you don’t get things completely right. But imagine how much better your visit would be with a little insider advice from someone who lives there or regularly returns.

Credit: iStock/Traveller

Traveller asked contributors, local and overseas, who meet the above brief: what are the five most common mistakes that tourists, Australians included, make in popular cities around the globe?

London, England

The bus will help the budget and give broader views of London.Credit: Getty Images

Taking the train and not the bus
The adult pay-as-you-go bus fare is £1.75 ($3.50) for a journey of any length with unlimited free transfers within the first hour – and there’s a daily cap of £5.25. Buses also give you a better view anyway. Always go upstairs to the top deck and always try to get the seats at the front windows. See tfl.gov.uk

Getting to the markets too late
Borough and Camden Markets are overvisited, overhyped, overcrowded. Go very early or don’t go at all. Borough has a well-won reputation, but it can now be a nightmare trying to push all the Instagrammers to one side to get at the food. Maltby Street market in Bermondsey is where it’s at now. See maltbystreetmarket.co.uk

Taking a spin on the London Eye
Just don’t. It’s expensive, slow and the queues are often soul-crushingly long. There are better views of London from Greenwich Hill (it can get busy on warm days), from Primrose Hill, Richmond Park Hill or, if you want to get up close to the city, the Skygarden in the Fenchurch Building (aka the Walkie Talkie) in EC3. It’s free, but you need to book in advance online. See skygarden.london

Not walking under the Thames
The Greenwich foot tunnel runs 370 metres between Island Gardens on the Isle of Dogs and Greenwich. Get to Island Gardens via the Docklands Light Railway, descend the staircase, and 10 minutes later pop up on the other side of the river. Never gets old. Open 24/7 and 40,000 people use it daily. See visitlondon.com

Not visiting the Tulip Stairs
In Greenwich, take the time to see the criminally unknown and stunningly elegant Tulip Stairs in the Queen’s House. It’s one of the first self-supporting spiral staircases in London. The crushed blue glass on the banisters contrasts beautifully with the bright white of the steps. See rmg.co.uk

- Keith Austin

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo skyline at sunset … you can’t see the city in a day, or a year.Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

Forgetting how huge it is
It’s a megalopolis of almost 40 million people. You just can’t, physically, do everything there is to do in this city during a normal holiday. You can’t do it in a week; you can’t do it in a year. And if you obsess over getting to every single attraction and location you’re dying to visit, you will spend many hours sitting on trains, and not much time enjoying yourself. See tokyotokyo.jp

Not leaving room for spontaneity
There are some experiences and attractions in Tokyo that you will need to book well ahead: teamLab Planets, the Ghibli Museum, perhaps a high-end meal. Beyond that, however, it’s a mistake to lock in too much before you have even arrived in Tokyo. This is a city that rewards exploration and spontaneity, and you want to leave plenty of room in your schedule to just discover. See teamlab.art; ghibli-museum.jp

Travelling too far for food
Any time someone asks for Tokyo restaurant recommendations, the immediate response is: where are you staying? Because you shouldn’t travel too far for food in Tokyo. It’s a waste of time. Wherever you are, you will be surrounded by so many great places to eat, everything from no-frills izakaya to high-end dining. The longer you spend eating local, the more of these places you will find. See japan.travel

Buying single transport tickets
You’ll take lots of trains in Tokyo, and you won’t want to line up for a fresh ticket each time. Before you travel, if you have an iPhone, load an IC transport card (either Pasmo or Suica) on your digital wallet and tap on and off trains and buses with that. Alternatively, Tokyo Metro’s 24-, 48- and 72-hour passes represent excellent value for tourists. See jreast.co.jp; pasmo.co.jp

Ignoring etiquette and cultural norms
The Japanese are forgiving of bumbling tourists, but as a visitor – and with tourist numbers skyrocketing and associated issues rising – you need to pay attention to the social rules. Don’t eat while walking around; don’t talk on the phone on public transport; don’t be loud or aggressive; take your shoes off indoors … The list goes on, and it’s up to visitors to research and observe it. See japan.travel

- Ben Groundwater

New York City, US

Brooklyn and other boroughs, not just Manhattan, should be part of the Big Apple experience.Credit: Getty Images

Spending too much time in Manhattan
There are five boroughs in NYC, but many Aussies spend their time in just one: Manhattan. Don’t skip Brooklyn and Queens, where you’ll find great bars, food and shopping. The biggest mistake? Not venturing further than Times Square. See nyctourism.com

Paying too much for tickets
However, if there’s a Broadway show or concert you absolutely must see, consider buying tickets before you leave Australia. For everything else, save money by booking on TodayTix or chancing it on rush/lottery tickets, sold on the day of the performance. See todaytix.com

Not taking public transport
The subway is a lot cheaper and often faster from A to B than Ubers. Crime is a concern on public transport, yet there’s both a strong police presence and safety in numbers. And if you see an empty carriage on a packed subway, it’s empty for a reason – best avoid it. See new.mta.info

Not trying street food
Overpriced hot dogs in Central Park don’t count. Locals like to eat their lunch standing and they don’t mind lining up at food trucks for authentic halal “street meat” over rice, Mexican birria tacos, a cheesy pizza slice, Tibetan dumplings or an ice-cream cone with sprinkles. See nyctourism.com

Planning too much in advance
New York is not a place for spreadsheets, advance ticket purchases and military precision. If you plan too much before you get there, you’ll miss the joy of spontaneity. Land, check in, look around, then see what happens. You won’t be bored.

- Kristie Kellahan

Bangkok, Thailand

You can be sure security at Wat Phra Kaew will be enforcing the “No photos” rule.Credit: iStock

Taking a tuk-tuk
They’re novel, wind-in-your-hair fun. Cheap as chips, right? No, especially if you don’t negotiate the fare before the ride begins. Metered taxis, while slower, usually cost less than the “tourist price” a foreigner will pay in a Bangkok tuk-tuk. Try the Sky Train, it’s faster and cheaper, even if less fun. See bts.co.th

Raising your voice
You suspect you’ve been overcharged, or there’s been some misunderstanding. Talk calmly, negotiate, smile if you can, but raise your voice to a Thai and you’ve blown it. You’ve lost face (even if you don’t know it) and, worse, you’re also causing them to. Button the lip and, if necessary, politely move on.

Being too snap-happy
Signs that say “No photos” mean exactly that. Notably at Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok’s Grand Palace where the Emerald Buddha is displayed. The security guards are eagle-eyed and professionally unsympathetic to your phone or memory card. Security in nightclubs and bars are even more so. Their city, their rules. See royalgrandpalace.th

Not being aware of body language
Thailand, as with most countries, has subtle cultural codes that aren’t always obvious to a new arrival. Common faux pas include touching a Thai person on the head (not welcome), pointing feet, especially the soles, at someone (disrespectful) and a woman touching a monk (a definite no-no).

Mentioning the monarchy
Whatever your opinions on royalty are, best keep them to yourself to spare embarrassment all-round. The monarchy is both a widely respected tradition and a sensitive topic. Thais are circumspect in discussing it with anyone. Jokes and disparagement are not only unwelcome, they’re illegal.

- John Borthwick

Cape Town, South Africa

Don’t just stick to the city … a road trip along the Atlantic coast is a must.Credit: Getty Images

Pre-booking Table Mountain Cableway tickets
On clear days, you can see forever. But on days the “Cape Doctor” (a fabled south-easter) is blowing, the vista from Table Mountain’s peak can be mired in a tablecloth of cloud. To avoid disappointment, wait for a cloudless day before booking tickets for the cableway. And if the cloth refuses to budge, head to Blougbergstrand for the best view of the gossamer-draped monolith. See tablemountain.net

Hiking Table Mountain without a guide
Magnificent though it is, Cape Town’s centrepiece has a shady side: muggings aren’t uncommon on the trails lacing its flanks. It’s essential to go with an experienced guide, or in groups of at least four. Table Mountain National Park also recommends hikers be alert, leave valuables at their hotel and inform a contact person of the route they’re taking and the expected time of their return. See sanparks.org

Being too scared to venture into the townships
Conversely, fear of crime puts many tourists off visiting Cape Town’s vibrant townships – home to the majority of the city’s populace. These precincts are no less safe than further afield; and with their rich melange of history, art, music, cuisine and social enterprise development, townships such as Gugulethu, Khyelitsha and Langa add depth and perspective to one’s visit. Tip: Avoid “poverty tourism” by booking with a reputable tour company. See coffeebeansroutes.com

Sticking to the city
Cupped by that famous mountain, the city bowl can become an inescapable temptress. But Table Mountain is just the tip of a range running the length of the Cape Peninsula. Visitors miss out on some extraordinary sights when they forgo a looping road trip along the Atlantic coast to the Cape of Good Hope and back to the city via Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg. See tours-capetown.co.za

Assuming wineries don’t exist in the city
Visitors unable to get to the Cape Winelands kick themselves when they learn that South Africa’s oldest wine farm, Groot Constantia, is just 20 minutes from the CBD. Founded by Cape Governor Simon van der Stel in 1685, the vineyards ripple down Table Mountain’s eastern flank towards False Bay. Transport is sorted, too: Groot Constantia is a stop on the city’s hop-on hop-off bus wine tour route. See grootconstantia.co.za

- Catherine Marshall

Berlin, Germany

Berliners know the best way to experience the city is to tackle it neighbourhood by neighbourhood.Credit: Getty Images

Not embracing the ’hoods
Some visitors spend their days criss-crossing this sprawling city, searching out the sights of every far-flung corner. Smart travellers understand that the best way to experience Berlin is to tackle it neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Not only does this save you travel time, it also lets you absorb each area’s distinctive vibe, from the edgy art and delicious street food of Neukolln to the boho chic of Prenzlauer Berg. See visitberlin.de

Not validating your train ticket
Remember to validate your ticket before taking public transport. (In train stations, look for the small yellow and white box on the platform – if you can’t find it, ask someone to point it out.) Inspectors patrol regularly and there are hefty fines if you travel without validating first. See bvg.de

Forgetting your swimsuit
Who needs beaches? Summer brings plenty of opportunities to relax by the water, thanks to the 3000 or so lakes in Berlin and the surrounding Brandenburg area. Try the forest-fringed Liepnitzsee or the pine-scented promenade of the Flakensee for a lovely way to cool off. See visitberlin.de

Going the full carnivore
Berlin is one of the great cities for plant-based dining, with a wealth of excellent vegan and vegetarian restaurants. From the zero-waste meals at FREA to the ever-vibey Cookies Cream, this is plant-based food even carnivores will enjoy. See frea.de; cookiescream.com

Not cashing up
Berliners are known for doing things differently, and one of the things they do differently is still relying on cash. You can get away with paying by card at department stores and supermarkets, but a surprising number of smaller retailers and restaurants operate on a cash-only basis, so come prepared.

- Ute Junker

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Prudent pedestrians will keep off the bike paths in Amsterdam.Credit: Getty Images

Stepping out in front of a bike
Rain, hail or shine, cycling is a way of life for the Dutch. Many tourists make the critical mistake of stepping off the crowded footpath into the bike path with disastrous results. Increasingly, the greater hazard is tourists trying to do as the Dutch do. If you have never learned to ride a bike, or haven’t ridden a bike in a while, Amsterdam isn’t the place to get back in the saddle. See iamsterdam.com

Not booking museums in advance
Planning on visiting Anne Frank House or the Van Gogh Museum? The era of spontaneity is long over when it comes to Europe’s top museums, and you’ll need to book well in advance to gain entry. Tickets for Anne Frank House, for example, are released six weeks in advance every Tuesday, and are snapped up almost immediately. Avoid unauthorised third-party sellers: you’ll simply be throwing your euros away. See annefrank.org; tickets.vangoghmuseum.com

Eating space cake
Amsterdam’s laws around marijuana use are well known, and while most travellers don’t want to smoke a joint in a licensed coffee shop (which does not serve actual coffee), some curious fellows are willing to indulge in a little weed-infused space cake or cookies. Unfortunately, it’s a big mistake: digesting the chemicals baked into the cake takes longer than if it was smoked. Many people assume they need to eat more cake as they don’t feel anything, and end up overindulging. This all sounds rather amusing, but remember it’s illegal to buy drugs on the street, smoke on the street, or take them out of the country.

Going card only
Throughout The Netherlands, many small businesses do not accept cash, requesting “Pinnen Only”, an electronic payment. However, the trickier caveat is that many businesses also don’t accept credit cards – a tedious, but time-consuming issue when you’re simply trying to pay for a pickled herring sandwich. An easy work-around is to turn your phone to aeroplane mode and tap using Apple Pay or Google Wallet, or carry a debit card.

Not factoring in or respecting the tourist tax
Amsterdam’s tourist tax is among the highest in Europe. It may seem like a scam, but it’s not: hotels are required to charge a 12.5 per cent tourist tax on arrival. It’s all part of the city’s approach to managing over-tourism, which also involves incredibly strict regulations on apartment rentals (if you rent one, make sure it has a proper licence).

- Shaney Hudson

Paris, France

Buzzy Belleville … you’ll get amazing views of Paris from this hilltop district.Credit: Getty Images

Sticking to the classics
Sure, tick off the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Sacre-Coeur, but spend a morning or an afternoon in a less touristy area, such as buzzy Belleville, in the city’s east. Here, old-school cafe-bars, hip bistros, rolling parks and cosmopolitan markets draw a cross-section of Parisian society. You’ll get amazing views of Paris from this hilltop district too. See parisjetaime.com

Obsessing about Michelin stars
Young new-wave chefs craft flavour-packed dishes at bargain prices. At rustic-chic restaurants like Les Resistants you’ll pay about $50 per person for a three-course lunch with a glass of wine. See lesresistants.fr

Taking the Metro only if you really have to
Don’t be shy. The subway gets you around quickly, but Paris is one of the world’s great walking cities. It’s relatively compact, mostly flat, flush with magnificent architecture. And there’s usually a boulangerie within view if you’re peckish. See ratp.fr

Assuming nothing is free in pricey Paris
There are dozens of cultural attractions that don’t cost a cent (and normally have no queues either). Check the Carnavalet, which traces the city’s enthralling history, and the Modern Art Museum’s Matisse, Picasso and other legends with a bonus glimpse of the Eiffel Tower through its huge windows. See parisjetaime.com

Overlooking the supermarkets
There’s something undeniably romantic about shopping in Paris’ independent stores, but the supermarchés (supermarkets) often have equally enticing choices at better prices. Whenever you see a Carrefour, Auchan, Leclerc or Intermarché, do try to pop in.

- Steve McKenna

FIVE MORE TOURIST FAILS

Geneva, Switzerland

Not walking enough

Geneva merits a big walk along the lakeshore.Credit: Getty Images

Don’t save all your hiking for the Alps. Geneva merits a big walk along the lakeshore, lined by promenades, parks and gardens with sweeping views to the French Alps. Start in the botanic gardens just below the palace-sized United Nations office, follow the shore to Mont Blanc Bridge then continue as far as Parc La Grange – its rose garden is just the place to fall in love on a summer’s day. See geneve.com

Mumbai, India

Not bargaining

Street food vendors will be offended if customers don’t bargain.Credit: Getty Images

Failing to haggle anywhere in India not only means you pay too much, but it can also disappoint sellers. I was once refused a sale in Mumbai until I bargained with the shopkeeper, who told me off for agreeing to the first price she quoted. Decide what you think is fair to pay, then go back and forth with the vendor until you either agree or leave it be. See incredibleindia.gov.in

Ubud, Indonesia

Staying only in big hotels and resorts

Aim to stay in Ubud, away from the tourist crowds.Credit: Getty Images

Languish in the lap of luxury, to be sure one of the best aspects of Bali, but don’t neglect Ubud’s smaller guesthouse accommodation and locally run experiences. At smaller guesthouses and BnB accommodation, such as The Suris, you can meet local families and enjoy intimate Bali experiences. See indonesia.travel

Rome, Italy

Visiting the wrong market
Forget the famed market at Campo de’ Fiori. It’s pretty enough, it’s really strictly for tourists and the prices are horrendous. Cross the river to the San Cosimato Market in Trastevere, where Romans have gone to shop, gossip and pick up the news for the past 13 centuries. See italia.it

Singapore

Thinking it’s just a concrete jungle
Sure, this island city-state is one of the world’s most densely populated places, but it’s also among the greenest. Head to its serene outlying islands, walk the 24 kilometres of the continuously green Rail Corridor and visit the World Heritage-listed Singapore Botanic Gardens (every bit as good, or better, than Gardens by the Bay). See visitsingapore.com

Contributors (in order): Brian Johnston, Michael Gebicki, Penny Watson, Nina Karnikowski, Anthony Dennis.