Cool Places to Go for the Culturally Curious Traveler

Updated on January 20, 2025 by Meg Pier

PAC Places To Go

Insider Guides to Inspiring Destinations

Looking for cool places to go? People Are Culture features insider guides to inspiring destinations for the culturally curious independent traveler. We offer an ever-growing roster of guides on selected cities, regions and countries in Europe, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

We curate the most compelling experiences in the realms of archaeology; architectural Styles; dance; folk art; festivals; culinary arts; gardens and landscapes; Museums; music; and textiles.

Through our access to local cultural standard-bearers and stewards, we share with you authentic insights about the history, philosophies, and traditions of a host of fascinating destinations.

Each guide is illustrated with vivid photography and reveals the must-see attractions along scenic routes; suggests unique and delightful lodging accommodations; and recommends the best professional guides.

If cultural tourism is new for you, or you simply want a refresher on the definition of culture for context in your trip-planning, check out our in-depth content on examples of culture, and extensive resources on different cultures and cultural identity.

Go ahead and feed your wanderlust! Enjoy your armchair exploration of People Are Culture's window on the world...and please share your take on a destination you've visited by making a comment!

If you are interested in cultural landscapes, check out our sister YouTube channel Magic Places and Etsy shop Uplifting Lens!

European Local Culture Guides

Local Culture Guides Aran Islands of Inishmore and Inishmaan

Aran Islands of Inishmore and Inishmaan

The culture and history of the Aran Islands of Inishmore and Inishman are revealed by locals in our guide. Get the Celtic backstory to these islands off Galway.

Local Culture Guides - Slea Head Drive Ireland

Definitive Guide To Archaeology Sites Of Dingle’s Slea Head Drive

Slea Head Drive is a must on a visit to Ireland’s west coast. Get a local museum curator's take on the best cultural experiences.

Local Culture Guides - Culture in Italy Ferrara in Italy

Ferrara in Italy Full of Unique History and Traditions

Ferrara in Italy has cultural attractions like Estense Castle, Jewish Quarter and more! Get local's takes on the best of the city’s culture!

Local Culture Guides - Oslo City Hall Features Murals by Renowned Norwegian Artists

Oslo City Hall Features Murals By Renowned Norwegian Artists

Oslo City Hall features epic murals by renowned Norwegian artists that depict the country's history. Read the fascinating backstory here!

Local Culture Guides - Icelandic Landscape Inspires Culture Rich with Magical Folklore

Icelandic Landscape Inspires Culture Rich With Magical Folklore

Icelandic landscape is otherworldly and inspires a rich tradition of Icelandic folklore. Learn about glaciers and black beaches.

Local Culture Guides - Blue Grotto in Malta is One of Island's Three Amazing Maritime Attractions

Blue Grotto In Malta Is One Of the Island’s Three Amazing Maritime Attractions

The Blue Grotto in Malta, along with the Grand Harbor and Marsaxlokk Bay, are a trio of the island's must-see sights.

Local Culture Guides - The Isle of Skye Scotland

The Legendary Landscape of The Isle of Skye Scotland

The Isle of Skye in Scotland is where geology meets literature with wonders like Kilt Rock, MacLeod's Tables and Neist Point!

Local Culture Guides - Architecture of Glasgow

How Renowned Architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh Changed Glasgow

Charles Rennie Mackintosh's architecture is explored in this interview with curator Peter Trowles on influence of Mackintosh and Art Nouveau.

Local Culture Guides - People of Slovenia Ljubljana Architecture

Ljubljana Architecture Contributes to the Beautiful Culture of Slovenia

Ljubljana architecture reflects the city’s history as a cultural crossroads. Learn its architectural heritage with a Slovenian architect.

Local Culture Guides - Culture of Spain Alhambra of Granada Spain

Alhambra of Granada - History and Symbolism Revealed by Insider

The Alhambra of Granada is a spectacular Moorish palace in Spain. Blanca, an insider with a connection to its past, shares its secrets.

Local Culture Guides - Insights on the Architecture of Gaudi from Sculptor Luis Gueilburt

Insights on the Gaudi Architecture from Sculptor Luis Gueilburt

Gaudi architecture enthralls with its distinctive organic lines. Gaudi expert and sculptor Luis Gueilburt shares insights on Gaudi's legacy.

Local Culture Guides - Culture in Italy Po River

Po River Delta: Locals Share History and Traditions

Italy’s Po River Delta has three must-see cultural attractions, which are Comacchio, Pomposa Abbey and the Po Delta Biosphere Reserve.

North American Local Culture Guides

Yucatan Peninsula Travel Guide

Guide to Cultural Attractions of Yucatan Peninsula

My guide to the best things to do in the Yucatan, Mexico takes you to Mayan temples, spectacular cenotes and a stunning colonial city.

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende - The Real Story Of Who Put It On The Map

San Miguel de Allende is where the iconic art school Instituto Allende is, which has propelled the town into a renowned cultural epicenter.

Ile D’Orleans Quebec | Exploring Québecois Traditions and Culture

Ile D’orleans Quebec - Exploring Québecois Traditions And Culture

Ile d'Orleans is 15 minutes from Quebec but once over the Pont d'Ile is the by-gone existence that is a microcosm of Québecois culture.

Old Quebec Features Unique Architecture and Cultural Influences

Old Quebec Features Unique Architecture And Cultural Influences

Old Quebec history is best understood through its unique architecture which reveals the story of the city's cultural influences.

Tofino British Columbia

Tofino British Columbia - Experience Hishuk ish ts’ awalk

Tofino, British Columbia is home to the philosophy hishuk ish ts’ awalk, ‘we are all one’. Learn the connection of its people and landscape!

American Culture Lafayette Cemetery in New Orleans

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans a Fertile Ground for Life Lessons

Take a tour of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in the Garden District with local Sarah, who offers a primer on unique New Orleans’ traditions.

American Culture Monticello Plantation Garden Preserves Jefferson's Retreat

Monticello Plantation, a Relaxing Retreat at Thomas Jefferson’s “Temple”

Monticello Plantation was Thomas Jefferson’s botanical sanctuary. Learn about the charms and history of this UNESCO site in Virginia.

American Culture Skyline Drive in Virginia, a Trip Through Scenery and Cultural Heritage

Skyline Drive in Virginia, a Trip Through History and Blue Ridge Mountains

Thinking of a trip on gorgeous Skyline Drive in Virginia? Learn the history of this national treasure from a local ranger!

Valles Caldera

Valles Caldera in New Mexico, a National Preserve and Place of Intrigue

Valles Caldera in New Mexico is a beautiful national preserve and place of intrigue. Writer Tom Ribes shares its history and seasons.

Caribbean, Colombian and Guatemalan Local Culture Guides

Curacao Synagogue is Oldest Jewish Congregation Site in North America

Curacao Synagogue is the Oldest Jewish Congregation Site in North America

Curacao Synagogue Mikve Israel-Emanuel is the oldest active Jewish congregation in the Western hemisphere.

Las Hermanas Mirabal, Arts Mecca in Dominican Republic

Las Hermanas Mirabal, Arts Mecca in Dominican Republic

Las Hermanas Mirabal murals in the Dominican Republic are an art paradise, featuring more than 400 works of art by Dominican artists.

Locals Share Their Take on the Vibe of Bogota's La Candelaria

La Candelaria Neighborhood in Bogota, Colombia is City’s Oldest Enclave

La Candelaria neighborhood in Bogota, Colombia is explored with locals who share their impressions of living in such an alluring place.

Culture of Colombia Cartagena Beach

Mangroves Are Explored And Protected With Sustainable Tourism By Eco Activist

Mangroves sustainable tourism in La Boquilla preserve an ecosystem and enables a local community to thrive. Get the back story here!

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park In Colombia is Home To Kogi People

Tayrona National Park is home to the world’s “Elder Brothers,” the Kogi people. Their rituals and lifestyle are distinct to their culture.

Textiles of Guatemala Offer Meaning and Symbolism of Traditions

Textiles of Guatemala Offer Meaning and Symbolism of Traditions

The textiles of Guatemala are for sale at Nim Po’t, home of the world’s largest retail Mayan textile collection. Hear from the manager, Marco!

Guatemalan Culture Abounds at Chichicastenango Market

Guatemalan Culture Abounds at Chichicastenango Market

Guatemalan culture is perhaps best exhibited at the Chichicastenango market, where there are vibrant textiles, fabulous masks, and more.

Kaqchikel Culture of Guatemala Based on Family and Traditions

Kaqchikel Culture of Guatemala Based on Family and Traditions

The culture of Guatemala is home to the Kaqchikel people, an indigenous Mayan group. Their lives revolve around family, tradition and food.