Home » Forum » Topics

Tips for blending in while traveling through Europe?

travel tipseuropefashionpacking
avatar
Marin_Pro
Joined:
05.01.2020
Posts: 2287
Topic Starter
26.01.2025 06:54
I'm heading to France and Italy for a few weeks this summer and I'm really trying to avoid the 'stereotypical tourist' look. I've heard that Europeans generally dress a bit more formally than we do in the States, even for casual outings. Does anyone have advice on what staples I should pack to look a bit more local? I want to be comfortable for walking, but I don't want to stand out immediately as someone who just got off a tour bus.
19 replies in this topic
avatar
Brayan_Z
Joined:
27.05.2021
Posts: 2447
11.02.2025 17:36
Ditch the white sneakers and baseball caps. That’s the biggest giveaway immediately.
avatar
SamoPitam
Joined:
15.10.2021
Posts: 2404
25.03.2025 17:04
In reply to a previous post
I agree with the previous comment. Swap the white running shoes for some nice leather loafers or a clean, slim-profile sneaker like a Stan Smith or Superga.
avatar
radek_sofia
Joined:
04.03.2024
Posts: 545
07.05.2025 00:02
Honestly, just wear clothes that fit well. Americans tend to wear baggy t-shirts and cargo shorts, which you won't see much of in Paris or Rome.
avatar
Timo_G
Joined:
01.03.2022
Posts: 411
08.06.2025 22:49
In reply to a previous post
Good point. A well-fitted polo or a button-down shirt makes a huge difference compared to a graphic tee.
avatar
ekspert_forum
Joined:
09.08.2020
Posts: 760
14.06.2025 09:22
Don't overthink it too much. You're going to be walking 20k steps a day, so prioritize comfort first or you'll be miserable.
avatar
Zhivko_D
Joined:
11.09.2023
Posts: 381
17.07.2025 05:51
In reply to a previous post
Exactly. You can look 'local' and still wear comfortable shoes, just don't wear neon-colored neon hiking shoes to dinner.
avatar
Leni_C
Joined:
22.10.2023
Posts: 48
27.08.2025 14:01
Avoid wearing shorts unless you're at the beach. Most locals in cities wear trousers or nice jeans even when it's hot.
avatar
Fabi_W
Joined:
19.06.2024
Posts: 1053
31.08.2025 00:17
In reply to a previous post
This is true, but honestly, in the middle of a July heatwave in Rome, locals definitely wear shorts. Just make sure they aren't cargo shorts.
avatar
Yavor_K
Joined:
21.04.2021
Posts: 106
30.09.2025 11:38
Stick to neutral colors-navy, black, grey, and white. Avoid bright, flashy 'vacation' prints.
avatar
Viktoria_S
Joined:
28.10.2021
Posts: 2426
13.10.2025 08:52
I'd add a light scarf. It sounds cliché, but it really is a staple accessory in France and Italy for both men and women.
avatar
Timo_G
Joined:
13.02.2024
Posts: 2276
19.01.2026 08:43
In reply to a previous post
I totally agree with the scarf tip! It instantly elevates a simple t-shirt and jeans look.
avatar
Yani_Z
Joined:
22.01.2024
Posts: 2479
26.01.2026 04:30
Don't carry a massive backpack everywhere. Use a slim crossbody bag or a leather tote if you need to carry things.
avatar
Roman_88
Joined:
13.09.2021
Posts: 247
06.02.2026 07:25
In reply to a previous post
A big hiking backpack is the ultimate 'please rob me' sign, definitely avoid that.
avatar
damian_varna
Joined:
06.08.2024
Posts: 245
09.02.2026 14:51
Learn to say 'Bonjour' or 'Buongiorno' when entering a shop. It's more about your attitude than your clothes.
avatar
Fari_P
Joined:
11.03.2024
Posts: 2136
15.03.2026 05:21
In reply to a previous post
Yes! Being polite and quiet goes much further than trying to dress like a local.
avatar
ChernaKotka
Joined:
03.08.2021
Posts: 1043
20.03.2026 03:45
Skip the fanny pack. If you need a money belt, keep it hidden under your shirt.
avatar
seba_bg
Joined:
24.08.2022
Posts: 764
02.04.2026 03:36
Honestly, just enjoy your trip and don't worry about being 'found out' as a tourist. You are a tourist, that's okay!
avatar
Timo_G
Joined:
23.12.2025
Posts: 1799
02.04.2026 08:02
In reply to a previous post
I think the goal is just to be respectful of the local culture, not necessarily to trick people into thinking you live there.
avatar
Sofiya_G
Joined:
30.07.2023
Posts: 687
09.04.2026 06:07
Bring a nice pair of sunglasses. It's the one accessory that everyone in Europe seems to have nailed.

Want to join the discussion?

Log in to your account to post a reply in this thread.