7 Benefits of Waking Up Early to Get Ready to Travel

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7 Benefits of Exploring a New City in the Early Morning

When I visit a new city, my routine is simple: wake up, have breakfast, and leave the hotel around noon. By then, the popular tourist spots are crowded – kids running around, tourists chatting, and the streets full of energy.
Trying to get a perfect shot? Not easy. It feels like people are constantly walking in front of the camera, ruining the shot. It was not what I had in mind.
Then one day I had an idea: “Hey Bekir, wake up early tomorrow”.

So I set my alarm and got up before the sun. When I went out, the city felt completely different. It was quiet, peaceful and almost like the city was mine – no crowds, just quiet streets. That morning I discovered the magic of early mornings in a new city.
After these experiences, I made sure to take some notes.

1) Rise Early, Rule the City

7 Benefits of Exploring a New City in the Early Morning

When I was in Batumi, I woke up early one morning and went down to the beach. That’s when I saw the fishermen.

There was something about them – something in the way they moved. It hit me: their passion. Waking up that early? It had to be a love for what they were doing. And that’s the key: passion. When you’re really passionate about something, time doesn’t matter.

7 Benefits of Exploring a New City in the Early Morning 2

2) Early Birds Get the Best Views!

The golden hour is like a photographer’s secret weapon, especially if you’re up before the world wakes up. With the sun low on the horizon, everything takes on a soft, golden glow. Streets are quiet, shadows are long, and the city feels like something out of a painting. It’s the perfect time to capture the magic of a city – before the midday sun turns everything into a hot mess.
Tips for stunning shots:
  • Rise and shine: Arrive early, just before or after sunrise. The golden hour doesn’t last forever.
  • Change your angle: Play with reflections and angles. Look for textures and specks that catch the light.
  • Go natural: Trees, water and clouds add depth. The golden light makes everything come alive!
If you’re lucky enough to catch it, you’ll see a city in a whole new light-literally.
Golden Hour

3) Experience Local Life at its Purest

Exploring the city in the early hours lets you see it the way the locals do—before the hustle and bustle take over. Whether you’re wandering through quiet streets, grabbing a coffee at a local café, or checking out the morning markets, it’s a rare opportunity to really connect with the city.
Don’t forget to say “Good morning” to the locals as they open their shops. That simple exchange of energy will set the tone for your entire day.
Experience Local Life at its Purest

4) Unlock the Power of a Smile

I learned this firsthand when I was in Tirana. Every morning I’d wander the local markets, exchanging smiles and a few words with the vendors. No crazy crowds, just a peaceful morning hearing stories about the city from the people who really know it. And let me tell you, the insights I gained were priceless. Not only did I walk away with fresh fruit and cool souvenirs, but I also left feeling connected to the city on a deeper level.

Instant connection: A smile breaks down barriers and makes you feel part of the community. Locals are more likely to engage and share valuable tips.
The Power of a Smile Connecting with Locals

5) Wake Up, Breathe Deep, Power Your Day!

I’ll admit it – there’s something magical about early mornings.
The air is fresh, clean and doesn’t smell of coffee or car fumes, and the streets are quiet – so quiet you can almost hear your own thoughts, which is rare later in the day.

Whether I’m walking, cycling or just sitting with a cup of coffee (pretending to have my life together), it’s the perfect time to reset. Mentally, it’s a game changer. It’s like hitting the refresh button on your body and mind.

Power Your Day

6) Your VIP Tour of a Tranquil City

Early mornings in a new city feel like you’re on a secret mission – just you and the streets. No crowds, no loud vendors trying to sell you stuff, just a peaceful, deserted city.
Honestly, it’s like a VIP tour without the chaos. You might feel a bit like a lost tourist at first, but guess what? There is no one around to bother you.It’s just you and the city waking up. And let’s face it, who’s going to rob you at 6am when everyone else is still in bed?
It’s the safest you’ll feel all day, and you can actually enjoy the city without a selfie stick poking you in the ribs!

7) Woke Up Before the City—Guess Who’s Winning?

By embracing these experiences, you’ll truly be one step ahead, not only in your travels, but in life itself. Every moment you invest in discovering the quiet, hidden gems of a city adds value to your trip and enriches your life with unforgettable memories. These small yet profound practices have shaped my own travels in ways I couldn’t have predicted, and I hope these insights will help you do the same.