Go Here Instead: 23 Vacation Dupes for Popular Tourist Destinations
Popular tourist destinations are often crowded, expensive, and can sometimes feel overly commercialized. For those looking for a more relaxed, authentic, and quieter experience, there are lesser-known alternatives that offer similar beauty and activities without the masses. These “vacation dupes” provide unique and memorable experiences while allowing travelers to avoid tourist congestion. Here are 23 alternative destinations that rival their more famous counterparts.
1. Tucson, Arizona, Instead of Sedona, Arizona
While Sedona draws crowds for its red rocks and spiritual retreats, Tucson offers a similar experience with fewer tourists. Enjoy stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, and a rich arts and food scene.
2. Lucca, Italy Instead of Florence, Italy
Florence may steal the spotlight, but Lucca is a charming alternative with fewer tourists. Located in Tuscany, this walled city boasts Renaissance architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning churches without the hustle and bustle of Florence. Take a leisurely bike ride along the city walls, enjoy an al fresco meal in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, and explore the local art scene.
3. Bilbao, Spain Instead of Barcelona, Spain
Skip Barcelona's crowds and head to Bilbao, a vibrant city known for its blend of traditional Basque culture and modern architecture. Bilbao offers beautiful riverside views, the famous Guggenheim Museum, and delicious pintxos (Basque tapas). With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more authentic Spanish experience.
4. Porto, Portugal Instead of Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is stunning but often overcrowded. Porto, Portugal’s second city, offers a similarly beautiful setting with charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the picturesque Douro River. Explore the historic Ribeira district, enjoy local wine at a riverside cafe, and take a cruise through the Douro Valley vineyards.
5. San Luis Obispo, California, Instead of Napa Valley, California
Avoid the crowds in Napa Valley by heading to San Luis Obispo in California’s Central Coast. Known as “SLO,” this destination offers beautiful wineries, stunning coastal views, and charming downtown shops without the tourist frenzy. SLO is also a gateway to nearby outdoor adventures like hiking in Montana de Oro State Park.
6. Valletta, Malta Instead of Rome, Italy
Rome is a top European tourist destination, but Valletta in Malta offers a similarly rich historical experience without the crowds. Wander through Valletta's narrow streets lined with Baroque architecture, explore ancient forts, and enjoy Mediterranean cuisine by the sea.
7. Lyon, France Instead of Paris, France
Paris may be the epitome of romance, but Lyon provides a quieter, equally romantic alternative. This city is known for its food scene, historic architecture, and charming old town. Stroll along the Rhône River, explore the Traboules (hidden passageways), and enjoy world-class cuisine in the “food capital of France.”
8. Kotor, Montenegro Instead of Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is undoubtedly beautiful, but it’s often overrun with tourists. Just down the coast, Kotor offers a quieter yet equally stunning experience. This fortified town is nestled in a bay surrounded by mountains, providing breathtaking views, charming cobblestone streets, and rich cultural history.
9. Gdansk, Poland Instead of Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is known for its medieval charm, but Gdansk offers a similar atmosphere with fewer crowds. Located on Poland's Baltic coast, Gdansk has a rich maritime history, stunning architecture, and a lively Old Town that’s perfect for exploring on foot.
10. Port Douglas, Australia Instead of Cairns, Australia
While Cairns is a popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas offers a more laid-back and less crowded experience. It’s still close to the reef but also provides access to the Daintree Rainforest and Four Mile Beach, offering both relaxation and adventure.
11. Graz, Austria Instead of Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a cultural hub, but Graz, Austria's second-largest city, offers a quieter experience with similar cultural richness. Known for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture, vibrant food scene, and contemporary art museums, Graz provides a delightful alternative to Vienna’s bustling streets.
12. Lille, France Instead of Nice, France
Nice on the French Riviera can get very crowded, but Lille in Northern France offers a unique charm with fewer tourists. Known for its Flemish architecture, lively cultural scene, and delicious cuisine, Lille is a delightful alternative for those seeking a French city experience.
13. Salzburg, Austria Instead of Munich, Germany
While Munich draws crowds for its beer gardens and Oktoberfest, Salzburg offers a more serene experience. Known for its stunning Alpine backdrop and as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg’s charming streets and rich musical history provide a great escape without the crowds.
14. Arezzo, Italy Instead of Pisa, Italy
Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower, but Arezzo, located nearby, offers a quieter and equally beautiful experience. This Tuscan city is known for its medieval architecture, antique markets, and historic churches without the throngs of tourists.
15. Ghent, Belgium Instead of Brussels, Belgium
Skip the crowds in Brussels and visit Ghent, a picturesque city with a rich history, stunning medieval architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Ghent’s canal-side views and fewer tourists make it a peaceful yet engaging destination.
16. Lecce, Italy Instead of Venice, Italy
Venice is beautiful but often overcrowded. Lecce, located in the “heel” of Italy's boot, is known as the “Florence of the South” for its Baroque architecture, historic sites, and laid-back vibe. Enjoy the charm of Italy without the crowds.
17. Riga, Latvia Instead of Tallinn, Estonia
While Tallinn is a popular Baltic destination, Riga, Latvia’s capital, offers a similar medieval charm with fewer tourists. Wander through the Old Town's cobblestone streets, explore Art Nouveau architecture, and enjoy local cuisine.
18. Marseille, France Instead of Cannes, France
Cannes may attract celebrities and tourists, but Marseille offers a more authentic French coastal experience. Known for its vibrant port, diverse culture, and delicious seafood, Marseille is a great alternative for travelers looking to avoid the glitz of Cannes.
19. Mendoza, Argentina Instead of Santiago, Chile
Santiago is a popular South American destination, but Mendoza offers a quieter experience with stunning vineyards, mountain views, and fewer tourists. It’s an ideal spot for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
20. Cadiz, Spain Instead of Seville, Spain
Seville is beautiful, but Cadiz, located along the coast, provides a unique blend of history, culture, and ocean views with fewer tourists. Known for its charming Old Town, beautiful beaches, and vibrant local festivals, Cadiz is a great alternative.
21. Leipzig, Germany Instead of Berlin, Germany
Berlin is often bustling with tourists, but Leipzig offers a quieter experience with a similar cultural vibe. Known for its music, art, and history, Leipzig is a hidden gem for those looking to explore German culture without the crowds.
22. Wellington, New Zealand Instead of Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is a famous adventure hub, but Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, provides a more relaxed atmosphere with plenty of cultural experiences, a beautiful waterfront, and access to nearby outdoor activities.
23. Bordeaux, France Instead of Paris, France
For wine lovers, Bordeaux offers a fantastic alternative to Paris. It boasts historic architecture, vineyards, and charming streets without the hustle and bustle of the French capital.
