International Greeter Association
About Greeters
What is a Greeter?
Greeters are enthusiastic residents who love their city and enjoy sharing it with visitors. They are not professional tour guides, but volunteers who offer free walks for individuals and very small groups of up to six people. A typical “Greet” lasts a few hours and is shaped around your interests, neighbourhoods you are curious about and the everyday life of local people. Today, Greeter services are available in more than 170 destinations worldwide and all official Greeter groups share the same core values of hospitality, respect and people‑to‑people encounters.
Why choose a Greeter?
A Greeter walk is a different kind of tourism: instead of following a fixed route, you discover hidden corners, everyday stories and local perspectives. Your Greeter can show you favourite cafés, parks, neighbourhoods and viewpoints, and talk about daily life, urban change and local culture in their city. This personal approach helps you feel at home, even during a short stay, and often leads to conversations and connections that go far beyond a checklist of sights.Greeters stand for gentle, respectful tourism that connects people and strengthens local communities. By welcoming small numbers of visitors, they help reduce pressure on crowded places while highlighting lesser‑known neighbourhoods and stories. Greeter activities support sustainable urban tourism, promote the positive image of destinations and encourage visitors to travel with open eyes and an open mind. Here you can find all Greeter destinations.
Why become a Greeter?
Becoming a Greeter is a way to share your love for your city while meeting people from all over the world and building meaningful connections. As a volunteer host, you can show visitors everyday places, local stories and neighbourhoods that matter to you, turning their stay into a more personal and authentic experience. At the same time, you practise languages, broaden your own horizons, and contribute to a more welcoming, inclusive and sustainable form of urban tourism in your community. Here you can find all information about how to become a Greeter or open your own Greeter destination
