Beyond the Crowds: Six European Destination “Dupes” to Discover in 2026

2023 has been a landmark year for overtourism, with popular destinations like Barcelona, Mykonos, and Venice struggling under the weight of record visitor numbers. Faced with soaring hotel prices, frustrated locals, scorching temperatures, and increasingly visible anti-tourism protests, many travelers found their dream vacations transforming into stressful ordeals. Cities have responded with strict measures: Barcelona and Venice implemented limits on tourist accommodations, targeted Airbnb rentals, restricted cruise ships, and capped tour group sizes. This shifting landscape has sparked a new travel trend – the search for “destination dupes,” lesser-known places that offer similar experiences to tourist hotspots but with smaller crowds, more authentic atmospheres, and gentler impacts on local communities and wallets.

Girona: Catalonia’s Hidden Gem

Just an hour from Barcelona lies Girona, a perfect alternative that delivers all the Catalan charm without the cruise ship chaos. This medieval city offers a significantly more relaxed pace of life and substantially lower prices – an increasingly important consideration for travelers as we approach 2026. Unlike Barcelona with its overwhelming crowds, Girona provides an authentic Spanish experience with narrow cobblestone streets, a well-preserved Jewish Quarter (The Call), and a magnificent cathedral. Visitors can walk the ancient Passeig de la Muralla (medieval city walls) for panoramic views or photograph the iconic colorful houses along the Onyar River. Don’t miss the Pont de les Peixateries Velles (Old Fish Market Bridge) for perfect photos, explore the 12th-century Arab Baths, or visit the city’s Art and Cinema Museums. Food enthusiasts will delight in local specialties like xuixos (sweet pastries) and creative ice cream flavors at Rocambolesc Gelateria, such as oven-baked apple or coconut and violet sorbet. For accommodation, consider staying in the walkable Barri Vell (Old Quarter) for medieval charm, quieter Montilivi for green spaces, or nearby coastal towns like Calella de Palafrugell if you’re seeking beaches.

Ljubljana: Slovenia’s Venetian Alternative

Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana has been gaining recognition as an excellent alternative to Venice, offering similar waterway charm but with fewer crowds and significantly lower prices. This pedestrian-friendly city features canals, pastel buildings, charming bridges, and vibrant café culture – all within a more relaxed, less touristy environment. The car-free Old Town invites leisurely exploration of cobblestone streets lined with Baroque and Renaissance architecture, including hidden gems like Locksmith Street with its colorful houses. Take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views and historical insights, or visit the Museum of Modern Art and the playful House of Illusions. The riverbanks bustle with outdoor dining options near the famous Triple Bridge, where you can also embark on relaxing river cruises. Ljubljana’s abundance of green spaces makes it exceptionally livable and pleasant for visitors. Sample local delicacies such as potica (nut rolls), štruklji (dumplings), and trdelnik (sweet pastry) at riverside cafés. For the best experience, book accommodations near the river or in the Old Town, where you’ll have easy walking access to the city’s main attractions and finest restaurants.

Tinos: Greece’s Authentic Island Experience

As tourists overwhelm the more famous Greek islands, savvy travelers are discovering hidden gems like Tinos – the perfect alternative to overcrowded Mykonos. Just a short ferry ride from its world-famous neighbor, Tinos offers traditional whitewashed villages, stunning beaches, and glorious sunshine, but with dramatically fewer visitors. Not only is Tinos more affordable than Mykonos, but it also provides a more authentic Greek experience with its traditional Cycladic character and fewer commercialized spaces. While Mykonos has become synonymous with expensive parties, Tinos maintains a quieter, more spiritual atmosphere, partly due to its significance as a pilgrimage site centered on the Church of Panagia Evangelistria. The island boasts a rich artisanal tradition, particularly in marble sculpting, visible in villages like Ktikados with its marble streets and the picturesque mountain settlement of Kardiani. Beach lovers can relax at Agios Sostis or Agios Fokas, while surf enthusiasts will enjoy the bohemian vibe at Kolimbithra. Cultural attractions include the unique 13th-century Pigeon Houses, the Archaeological Museum, and local wineries like T-OINOS. Hikers can trek to Exomvourgo for breathtaking island panoramas. The local cuisine features specialties like kopanisti cheese, artichokes, fresh seafood, and fourtalia (potato omelette) at authentic tavernas such as O Ntinos or To Perivoli tis Kardianis with its spectacular views. Stay in convenient Tinos Town (Chora) near the ferry port or opt for Kardiani Village to experience traditional island life with sea views.

Salerno: The Authentic Amalfi Alternative

For travelers weary of the Amalfi Coast’s overwhelming popularity and sky-high prices, nearby Salerno offers a refreshing alternative with similarly stunning views and genuine Italian charm. This historic port city delivers the dramatic coastlines and medieval architecture of its famous neighbors but at a fraction of the cost for food, drink, and accommodation. As a working Italian city rather than a tourist resort, Salerno allows visitors to immerse themselves in authentic local life even during peak season. It also serves as an excellent transportation hub with convenient bus, train, and ferry connections to Positano, Amalfi, Pompeii, and Capri. Explore the Centro Storico’s medieval alleys and artisan shops selling handcrafted leather goods and pottery, then visit the magnificent Salerno Cathedral with its impressive crypt. Other attractions include the ancient medical school’s Giardino della Minerva botanical garden, the imposing Arechi Castle, and the scenic Municipal Villa park. The Lungomare Trieste promenade offers beautiful sea views, while nearby Vietri sul Mare provides access to beach clubs. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s vibrant street art scene and museums like the Museo Diocesano and Archaeological Museum. Feast on Salerno’s renowned fresh seafood at local favorites like Mama Rosa and Cicirinella, enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza at Gli Esposito or Pizza de Michele, and satisfy your sweet tooth at Dolce Pantaleone. For accommodations, choose the history-rich Old Town (Centro Storico) for shopping and culture, or the Lungomare area for modern hotels with sea views and promenade access.

Rovinj: Croatia’s Fairytale Without the Crowds

While Dubrovnik struggles with overwhelming Game of Thrones tourism and soaring prices, Croatia’s lesser-known gem Rovinj offers a similar historic walled-city experience without the intense crowds. Located on the Istrian peninsula rather than in Dalmatia, this small coastal town features the same enchanting combination of Venetian architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning Adriatic waterfronts that made Dubrovnik famous. Rovinj’s more manageable visitor numbers make it ideal for a romantic Croatian escape without the peak-season crush. The town is characterized by turquoise waters, rocky swimming spots, pastel-colored houses, and a picturesque hilltop church. Wander through the Old Town’s art studios and galleries before climbing the bell tower at the Church of St. Euphemia for panoramic views across the Adriatic Sea. Nature enthusiasts can explore hidden coves along the coast, cycle through the beautiful Golden Cape Forest Park, or join boat trips for dolphin watching. For an added adventure, Rovinj’s position makes day trips to Venice possible. Culinary highlights include waterfront dining on fresh seafood at La Puntulina in the old town or an upscale experience at Monte, Croatia’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, where local delicacies like truffles feature prominently. For accommodations, families might prefer the Valbruna area, while couples seeking atmosphere should stay in the car-free Old Town, and those prioritizing beaches should consider Lone Bay.

Toulouse: The Pink City’s Parisian Charm

If you love French culture but find Paris increasingly overrun and commercialized, consider Toulouse as an excellent alternative offering similar romance, charm, and cultural richness in a more relaxed and affordable setting. Known as “The Pink City” for its distinctive terracotta architecture, Toulouse combines southern French sunshine with artistic flair and a walkable city center, allowing visitors to experience authentic French life without Parisian price tags. Like Paris with the Seine, Toulouse is graced by the Garonne River with romantic bridges and waterfronts perfect for evening strolls. The city also features the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi for picturesque towpath walks. The Old Town showcases stunning pink brick architecture, especially around the grand Place du Capitole, while history buffs will appreciate the Romanesque Basilique Saint-Sernin and the Gothic Couvent des Jacobins. For families and science enthusiasts, the Cité de l’espace offers an educational space experience, while outdoor lovers can enjoy cycling along the riverside paths. Toulouse’s excellent cuisine includes regional specialties like l’alicuit de canard (duck), cassoulet (rich bean stew), local sausages, and sweet treats such as croustade aux pommes (apple pastry). First-time visitors should consider staying in the central Capitole or Carmelite neighborhoods for easy access to main attractions, dining, and shopping. Alternatively, choose Saint-Étienne for historic charm and river proximity or Saint-Cyprien for a more local atmosphere with excellent food options.