tourist office

Meaning

A 'tourist office' (also called a tourist information center) is a place where visitors can get free maps, brochures, and advice about local attractions, transport, and events. It is run by local authorities to help travelers navigate the city and find things to do.

Examples

• Let's stop by the tourist office to grab a free map of the city center.

  Let's stop by the tourist office to grab a free map of the city center.

• The staff at the tourist office recommended a wonderful local restaurant.

  The staff at the tourist office recommended a wonderful local restaurant.

• You can buy discounted museum passes at the main tourist office.

  You can buy discounted museum passes at the main tourist office.

• Where is the nearest tourist office located?

  Where is the nearest tourist office located?

• The tourist office is right next to the train station, which is very convenient.

  The tourist office is right next to the train station, which is very convenient.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I went to the tourism office to ask for directions.

  ✓ I went to the tourist office to ask for directions.

  Although 'tourism' refers to the industry, the physical building established for visitors is called a 'tourist office' or 'tourist information center'.

• ✗ Can you tell me where the travel office is?

  ✓ Can you tell me where the tourist office is?

  A 'travel office' or 'travel agency' is a private business that sells vacation packages and flights, whereas a 'tourist office' is a public information hub.

Related Expressions

Practice

• We got a great walking tour brochure from the local ___.

  💡 The place where travelers get maps and local advice.

  Show answer

  tourist office

• If you are lost, look for a sign with an 'i' symbol to find the ___.

  💡 An official visitor information center.

  Show answer

  tourist office