Tour guide: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What tour guide is

A local guide leads visitors through a city, neighborhood or attraction on foot, by vehicle or by boat, sharing history, culture and practical tips. You need it when you want a knowledgeable local to show you the place rather than reading about it.

Signs you need it

  • You are visiting a city and want to see the main sights with someone who knows them
  • You want the history and culture of a neighborhood explained on the spot
  • You are traveling with a group that needs a planned route and timing
  • You want a private tour that fits your interests and pace
  • You want practical tips on food, transit and the best times to visit

What the pro does

  • Confirms the tour length, the meeting point, the group size and your interests
  • Plans a route with the stops, the walking distance and the rest breaks
  • Leads the group through the sites and shares history and local context
  • Answers questions and adjusts the pace for the group
  • Ends the tour at the agreed point and shares tips for the rest of your visit

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The length of the tour and the number of hours
  • The group size and whether the tour is private or shared
  • Whether the tour is on foot, by vehicle or by boat
  • Entry tickets, transport and meals that are included
  • Whether the guide needs to book special access to a site
  • Whether the tour is in a language other than the guide's first language

What a written quote should spell out

  • The tour length, meeting point and route
  • Group size and whether it is private or shared
  • Any entry tickets, transport or meals included
  • Cancellation and weather policy
  • Any extra time or travel charges

Questions to ask before you hire

  • Are you licensed or registered to guide in this city or site, if the area requires it?
  • What is the route, and how far will we walk?
  • What is the cancellation and weather policy?
  • How many people will be in the group?
  • Do you offer private tours for my interests?
  • What should I bring, and what is not included?

Red flags

  • Will not explain the route or the stops before the tour
  • Asks for payment in cash with no written booking
  • Says the tour includes entry tickets without confirming them
  • Does not show any credentials or reviews when asked

What you can do yourself

You can research the area, choose the tour style, and plan your timing before you book. Check the weather, wear comfortable shoes, and note any access needs for the group. Ask the guide to confirm the meeting point and the route in writing.

Licenses and permits

A license is usually not required for a tour guide, but some cities and sites require a local guide permit or business registration. Check with your state or local licensing agency, or the local tourism office, and ask the guide to show any permit it holds.

Tour guide questions

Do I tip the guide?

Ask the guide or the booking site. Many tours mention tipping in the terms, and it is a matter of your own choice.

What if the weather is bad?

Ask the guide about the rain or heat plan before you book, and check whether the tour can be moved or refunded.

Can the guide take us to places not on the listing?

Ask the guide. Changes can often be made for a private tour, but the cost and access need to be confirmed first.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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