20 DESTINATION DUPES: TRAVEL ALTERNATIVES THAT WON’T BREAK THE BANK
By Nicole Fuge
Travel has never been more accessible, right? Budget airlines, online booking sites, and loads of accommodation choices make it easier than ever to get away. But let’s face it—some of those dream destinations still come with a serious price tag, putting them way out of reach for a lot of us. That’s where “destination dupes” come in. It’s the travel trend that lets you experience the same vibe as those bucket-list spots—without breaking the bank.
What is a Destination Dupe?
A "destination dupe" refers to a travel spot that offers similar experiences to a more expensive or overcrowded destination but at a more affordable price. Think of it as a travel hack: the hidden gem that provides all the beauty, charm, and excitement of a sought-after location, without the steep costs or touristy crowds. These dupes give you the chance to visit a place that evokes the same vibes as an iconic destination, but at a fraction of the cost, making them perfect for budget-conscious travellers.
As people become more mindful of their travel spending, destination dupes are quickly becoming one of the hottest trends in the travel industry. They allow you to experience the magic of far-flung locales without draining your savings. So, whether you’re after stunning beaches, breathtaking mountain views, or vibrant city life, there’s a destination dupe for everyone.
Here are the top 20 destination dupes for 2025, ensuring you can travel in style without breaking the bank.
1. Santorini, Greece VS. Paros, Greece
While Santorini is famous for its whitewashed buildings and stunning sunsets, Paros is a more affordable and less crowded alternative. Paros boasts the same beautiful beaches, charming villages, and traditional Greek architecture, but with a more laid-back atmosphere and cheaper prices.
2. Madeira, Portugal vs. The Azores, Portugal
The Azores, an archipelago of lush green islands, offer a similar rugged landscape to Madeira, with dramatic cliffs, volcanic craters, and hot springs, but without the higher costs and popularity of its cousin island.
3. Canggu, Bali vs. Sri Lanka
Bali’s Canggu is the epitome of trendy, with its cool beach clubs and surf culture. However, Sri Lanka’s coastal areas like Mirissa and Unawatuna offer the same beach vibes, surf breaks, and yoga retreats, all at a fraction of the price.
4. Marrakech, Morocco vs. Fez, Morocco
Marrakech may have its bustling souks and famous landmarks, but Fez, one of Morocco’s oldest cities, offers a more authentic and less touristy experience. Its maze-like medina and historic sites give you that same Moroccan magic, but at a much lower cost.
5. Amalfi Coast, Italy vs. Cinque Terre, Italy
While the Amalfi Coast is famous for its stunning cliffside towns like Positano and Ravello, Cinque Terre offers a similar coastline with colourful villages perched on rugged cliffs. With fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices, Cinque Terre is the perfect dupe.
6. Tulum, Mexico vs. Holbox Island, Mexico
Tulum’s white-sand beaches and eco-chic resorts have made it a social media sensation. But Holbox Island, a short ferry ride from the Yucatán Peninsula, delivers the same turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and relaxed vibe, without the hefty price tag.
7. Paris, France vs. Budapest, Hungary
Paris is the ultimate romantic getaway, but Budapest offers a similar mix of stunning architecture, history, and thermal spas for a fraction of the cost. Plus, the city’s famous ruin bars and vibrant food scene are perfect for those seeking an unforgettable yet affordable European escape.
8. Mykonos, Greece vs. Naxos, Greece
While Mykonos has long been the go-to party island, Naxos offers a quieter, more traditional alternative with similar stunning beaches, charming villages, and ancient ruins. Plus, the cost of living and accommodations in Naxos is far lower than Mykonos.
9. Bora Bora, French Polynesia vs. Fiji
Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows and clear lagoons are iconic, but Fiji offers a similar tropical escape with equally breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts, all for a more affordable price.
10. Dubai, UAE vs. Doha, Qatar
Dubai may be the Middle East’s most famous luxury destination, but Doha offers a similar combination of futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and world-class dining, without the massive crowds and higher prices.
11. The Maldives vs. Seychelles
The Maldives' overwater bungalows and pristine beaches have been a bucket-list destination for years, but the Seychelles offer equally stunning tropical islands with lush jungles and turquoise waters at a more affordable price.
12. Santorini, Greece vs. Milos, Greece
Milos is becoming a popular dupe for Santorini with its striking volcanic landscapes, white beaches, and charming villages. While Santorini can get crowded and expensive, Milos offers a more relaxed atmosphere at a lower cost.
13. New York City, USA vs. Mexico City, Mexico
New York City’s towering skyline and diverse food scene are legendary, but Mexico City is quickly becoming a top destination for those seeking a city full of history, art, and cuisine. And with far more affordable hotels and restaurants, it's a steal.
14. Bali, Indonesia vs. Cambodia
Bali is known for its tropical beauty and spiritual vibe, but Cambodia offers similar landscapes with its temples, jungles, and coastal spots. Areas like Sihanoukville and Siem Reap offer similar vibes for a fraction of the cost.
15. Côte d'Azur, France vs. Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast
The French Riviera may be synonymous with luxury, but Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast has a similar Mediterranean charm, with historic towns like Split and Dubrovnik, as well as beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, at a more budget-friendly price.
16. Santorini, Greece vs. Parikia, Paros
Santorini’s dramatic cliffs and iconic sunset views are unforgettable, but Parikia, the capital of Paros, offers a similar blend of whitewashed buildings, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant nightlife, minus the crowds and inflated prices.
17. Kyoto, Japan vs. Kanazawa, Japan
Kyoto is a top destination for Japan’s traditional culture and historic temples, but Kanazawa offers an equally charming experience with its well-preserved Edo-period districts, gardens, and museums, but with far fewer tourists and cheaper accommodations.
18. Barcelona, Spain vs. Valencia, Spain
While Barcelona steals the limelight with its stunning architecture, food scene, and beaches, Valencia offers a similar experience with the added bonus of fewer crowds and a lower cost of living. The City of Arts and Sciences and the nearby beaches are key highlights.
19. London, UK vs. Edinburgh, Scotland
London is a dream for history lovers and culture seekers, but Edinburgh, with its cobblestone streets, historic castles, and vibrant cultural scene, offers a more affordable (and often quieter) alternative to the UK capital.
20. Hawaii, USA vs. Costa Rica
Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes and tropical beaches are iconic, but Costa Rica offers similar eco-adventures, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests, all while being much more affordable for travellers.
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