Europe’s most popular travel destinations like Paris, France, and Rome, Italy, are definitely worth experiencing. However, they also come with their fair share of downsides including high travel costs and large crowds that are taking away from the authentic experience. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives to Europe’s most popular travel destinations that will provide you with just an amazing experience, but at a lesser cost and in a much more relaxed environment.
UK: Manchester Instead of London
London is the UK’s biggest city and its cultural and administrative center. However, it is also expensive and packed with visitors all year long. Manchester, on the other hand, is also a big city but one that feels a lot more authentic. You will be able to get a real feel of British culture while also enjoying its vibrant and dynamic and plenty of awe-inducing attractions.
France: Lyon Instead of Paris
Lyon is also quite popular among tourists, but you won’t feel that as much as in Paris. While in Paris everything seems courted to foreign visitors, Lyon actually does a great job of allowing visitors to get immersed in its everyday life. You’ll get all the breathtaking architecture, great wines, and delicious food but in a much more laid-back and budget-friendly environment.
Italy: Verona Instead of Rome
Verona is often overlooked by tourists in favor of cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence. However, it represents a great budget-friendly and less touristy alternative to Rome. It has its own Roman amphitheater, albeit a lot smaller than Colossuem but one that is still in use today, with plenty of beautiful piazzas and charming streets, and its fair share of archeological ruins. On top of that, it is the city where the story of Romeo and Juliet takes place.
Spain: Valencia Instead of Barcelona
Valencia might not have Sagrada Familia or Montjuïc, but it offers plenty of the same things as Barcelona for a fraction of the cost. It is also situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, has breathtaking examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture, offers plenty to explore for arts and science enthusiasts, and has just as amazing food.
