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Old towns

Photo: Snotty, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

An old town, or historic district, is a town, district, or neighborhood with a significant number of preserved buildings from a bygone era. They often have a nostalgic feel and are considered to be one of the best ways to get a feel for what life was like long ago. The oldest towns have existed since before the beginning of the common era. Several old towns are recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

UnderstandThe tour guide: – This is a 15th-century building. An American visitor: – Wow... A Chinese visitor: – Is that BC or AD?
Destinations
Get aroundOld towns usually have narrow streets and even narrower alleys, where pedestrians move more easily than automobiles.
SeeOld towns can have architecture not found anywhere else in the world. Institutional buildings tend to be in well-known architectural styles, such as Gothic, Renaissance or styles of particular empires.
DoGuided tours are offered in many old towns, usually on foot. These give a chance to get a sense of orientation, and a presentation of the town's history and architecture.
BuyOld towns usually contain different kinds of shopping: traditional arts and crafts, antiques, as well as mass-produced souvenirs and mundane shopping.
EatAs old towns are frequented by travellers, meals can be overpriced and only so-so quality wise; in particular near the most frequented venues. Due to lack of modern utilities, hygiene might be deficient.
SleepThe accommodation inside the old towns can be limited in size and comfort, compared to the Grand Old Hotels of the late-19th century.
Stay safeAs old towns can be packed with people, be aware of common scams as well as pickpockets. Street lighting might be deficient in old towns.
RespectWhile the inhabitants of old towns might be used to visitors, they deserve privacy in their usually compact homes. Don't trespass or take intrusive photos.
See also

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