FAQ – Frequently asked Questions for Guests

As soon as the Greeter destination receives your request you should receive a first confirmation. Long enough before you go there they will try to match you with an available Greeter. They’ll then be in touch with you as quickly as possible by email to organize details well in advance of your trip.
If you think that you got stuck in this procedure please let us know by email to info@internationalgreeter.org. We will try to help you.

Please send an email to the Greeter destination as soon as possible if you need to change your plans. They’ll do their best to accommodate your changes.

All Greets are completely free and always will be, as Greeters volunteer their time out of enthusiasm and love for their city. We do not expect any kind of tipping. This is our spirit.

Greeters organizations are administered in different ways. In many cases it is possible to make a donation, but again, we stress that all Greets are free and you are under no obligation at all to make a donation. If a local Group cannot accept donations, you are also very welcome to donate to International Greeter Association, which helps us to develop the concept further.

Greets are for small groups of a maximum of six people and also solo travellers are welcome. Greets are private walks, so they’re not aimed at tour groups. For larger groups we strongly recommend organising a professional tour guide (Greeters are not professional tour guides!)

Expect a two to three-hour personalized walk on foot or using public transport. Your Greeter will show you unique spots, explain local culture and customs, answer your questions, and provide a genuine connection to the city.

No, we’re not professional tour guides. A Greeter is a local volunteer who welcomes visitors to their city and offers personalized, free walking tours to share authentic local life and insights beyond typical tourist spots. It’s like exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend. If you’d prefer an organised tour with an official guide, have a look at the website of the local tourism board for more details.

Greeter programs promote responsible and sustainable tourism by encouraging cultural exchange, supporting local communities, and respecting the natural and social environment.

The core values include voluntary and friendly reception, small group sizes to foster dialogue, free service, inclusivity without discrimination, support for sustainable tourism, and promoting cultural exchange.