THESE ARE THE “DESTINATION DUPES” FOR EUROPE’S MOST POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATIONS

If you want to avoid tourist crowds while still experiencing the landscapes and atmosphere of some of Europe’s most famous destinations, the increasingly popular trend of “destination dupes” could be an excellent choice.

PHOTO: Annecy

The term refers to lesser-known places that resemble famous tourist destinations in appearance, architecture or atmosphere, but are often quieter and more pleasant to explore.

INSTEAD OF SANTORINI – PLAKA ON MILOS

Whitewashed buildings, narrow streets, sea views and spectacular sunsets are not exclusive to Santorini. Plaka, on the Greek island of Milos, offers a similar Mediterranean atmosphere, but in a much more intimate setting.

Located on higher ground with views over the Aegean Sea, Plaka is particularly attractive in the evening, when the small settlement offers impressive sunset views.

INSTEAD OF THE AMALFI COAST – POLIGNANO A MARE

Steep cliffs, houses seemingly cascading towards the sea and colourful Mediterranean landscapes make Polignano a Mare one of Puglia’s most attractive destinations.

Its dramatic position above the Adriatic Sea can easily evoke the famous Amalfi Coast. However, compared with the best-known towns along the Amalfi Coast, Polignano a Mare offers a different pace of travel, with characteristic architecture, small squares and spectacular viewpoints.

INSTEAD OF VENICE – ANNECY

Canals, bridges, colourful façades and a romantic atmosphere make Annecy one of France’s most beautiful cities. Because of its numerous waterways and historic centre, it is often referred to as the “Venice of the Alps”.

The major difference, however, lies in the landscape. While Venice is surrounded by a lagoon, Annecy sits beside a lake at the foot of the Alps, offering visitors a combination of medieval architecture, water and impressive mountain panoramas

INSTEAD OF HALLSTATT – GOSAU

Hallstatt has become one of the symbols of Austrian tourism, but its enormous popularity has also brought significant tourist crowds.

A quieter alternative is Gosau, a valley surrounded by mountains and spectacular Alpine scenery. Gosau offers a more authentic experience of the Austrian countryside, with traditional houses, green valleys and views towards the Dachstein massif.

For travellers who value peace and nature more than a photograph at one of Austria’s most famous locations, Gosau can be an excellent alternative.

WHY ARE DESTINATION DUPES BECOMING SO POPULAR?

The growing popularity of destination dupes shows that travellers are increasingly looking for alternatives to Europe’s most crowded tourist destinations.

Rather than giving up on famous landscapes and atmospheres altogether, they are choosing lesser-known places that can provide a similar experience, often with fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace of travel.

According to Euronews, the “destination dupes” trend is part of a broader change in travel habits – from seeking out the most famous attractions to discovering lesser-known destinations that can offer an equally attractive experience.