7 Destination Dupes That Will Give You The Vibes Without the Crowds
Photo by Lisa van Vliet on Unsplash
If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering the sun-soaked streets of Santorini or soaking in the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, but had second thoughts thinking about the huge crowds or sky-high prices, you’re not alone. Enter destination dupes—the travel hack you didn’t know you needed. These lesser-known spots serve up all the iconic vibes of your dream destinations without the tourist madness (or breaking the bank). You’re welcome, bestie.
Photo by Mauricio Munoz on Unsplash
1. Hydra, Greece (Dupe for Santorini, Greece)
Hydra has the same iconic Greek island charm as Santorini—whitewashed buildings, stunning sea views, and romantic cobblestone streets—but with a fraction of the tourists. There are no cars on the island, which makes it even more peaceful for your perfect Mediterranean escape.
2. Rovinj, Croatia (Dupe for Dubrovnik, Croatia)
Skip Dubrovnik’s packed streets and head to Rovinj. With colorful buildings lining the Adriatic coast and a laid-back old-town vibe, Rovinj gives you that same medieval magic and breathtaking views without the tourist overload.
Photo by Marren Madison on Dupe
3. Bologna, Italy (Dupe for Florence, Italy)
Florence is a must-see, but if you’re over the crowds, Bologna’s medieval towers, beautiful piazzas, and drool-worthy food scene make it the perfect alternative. Plus, it’s the foodie capital of Italy—so you know you’re eating well.
4. Utrecht, Netherlands (Dupe for Amsterdam, Netherlands)
With charming streets, cozy cafés, and a much more local vibe, Utrecht gives you all the feels of Amsterdam without fighting for space on the canal boats.
5. Graz, Austria (Dupe for Vienna, Austria)
Vienna may be glamorous, but Graz brings all the art, architecture, and European flair with a more laid-back and affordable vibe. You’ll love exploring its UNESCO-listed old town and soaking in the culture at half the price.
6. Porto, Portugal (Dupe for Lisbon, Portugal)
If Lisbon is calling your name but you’re not about the hustle, Porto is a cozy alternative with the same history and charm. Colorful streets, riverside views, and some of the best wine in the world!
7. Menton, France (Dupe for Nice, France)
The French Riviera is stunning, but Nice can feel a bit too much. Instead, head to Menton, a smaller coastal town just as picturesque and way more chill. Plus, it’s right by the Italian border, so you can hop over for an espresso in Italy while you’re at it.
Photo by Lisa van Vliet on Unsplash
Next time you’re planning a dreamy getaway but side-eyeing those crowded hotspots and steep prices, remember: there’s a dupe for that! These underrated gems give you all the views, history, and culture you crave—minus the chaos. Get ready to explore these incredible destination dupes that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
