Choose these spots instead: Alternative destinations in Europe

Planning a summer getaway to Europe? You’re not alone. In 2023, over 700 million travelers explored the continent, many during the busy summer months.

Rather than battling through crowds at Europe's most frequented tourist spots, consider visiting lesser-known destinations for a more serene — and likely more affordable — experience.

To spark ideas for your next European journey, we've compiled a list of alternative destinations that resemble some of the region's most sought-after vacation spots.

Keep in mind that while these alternative destinations may not be completely obscure, they are well-known among savvy European travelers, and they aren’t exact replicas of the popular spots they mimic.

If we've inspired you to explore a destination you weren't previously aware of, we consider our mission accomplished. Here are 11 fantastic alternative destinations in Europe for your summer travels and beyond.

French Riviera alternative: Alentejo in Portugal

For stunning coastlines, charming villages, and a hint of luxury this summer, consider the Alentejo region in Portugal. Nestled between Lisbon and the Algarve, Alentejo boasts breathtaking landscapes along the coast and inland, with a mix of historic landmarks and nature reserves.

Explore the capital city of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to experience the 15th century, when it was the residence of the Portuguese royal family. (Use points to stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Evora starting at $74 or 22,000 points per night.) If you're keen on wildlife watching, head to the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve and don't forget your binoculars for bird and dolphin sightings.

The Alentejo is also home to the stylish Comporta, a Portuguese beach paradise that draws trendsetters from around the globe each summer. Think of it as the Hamptons, but without the massive crowds. Consider a stay at the luxurious Quinta da Comporta (rates start at $262 per night), a boutique hotel designed by architect Miguel Cancio Martins, located on the grounds of a former rice farm.

Swiss Alps alternative: Italy's Dolomites

While the Dolomites are technically part of the Alps, there’s a noticeable change once you cross from Switzerland into Italy. For one, vacations in the Dolomites are generally more affordable than in the Swiss Alps. Additionally, the culture and landscape differ, with the region boasting its own language (Ladin) and unique dolomitic limestone formations absent in other parts of the Alps.

For summer mountain adventures, the Dolomites offer an abundance of hiking trails, plus the option to take cable cars to the tops of various peaks, including Marmolada, which stands just shy of 11,000 feet. For the most adventurous, climbing a via ferrata, or "iron road," is an exciting option; these assisted climbing routes originated in the Dolomites.

Be sure to explore the stunning Alpine lakes as well. While Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is the most well-known — and therefore the most crowded — there are equally stunning alternatives like Lago di Landro (Durrensee) and Lago di Misurina.

For accommodations, Cortina d'Ampezzo is the region's luxury resort town, with its premier hotel being Cristallo (rates start at $430 per night). Be sure to reserve a table at Tivoli or SanBrite, both Michelin-starred dining establishments in the area.

Lake Como alternative: Lake Bled in Slovenia

We adore Lake Como as much as anyone, but for budget-conscious travelers, Slovenia offers a remarkable alternative: Lake Bled. While it may lack the grand palaces that adorn Como's shores, the breathtaking Bled Castle perched on a cliff and the charming church on Bled Island will make you feel like you're in a fairy-tale setting.

Lake Bled is significantly smaller than Lake Como, making it easy to explore, whether you choose to hike the surrounding trails, rent a boat, or even try stand-up paddleboarding. When it's time to unwind, you'll find the area famous for its thermal spas.

For a grand hotel experience reminiscent of Como, consider booking the Grand Hotel Toplice (starting at $234 per night), located just outside Bled, or the Vila Bled (contact the hotel directly for rates), a former presidential residence offering stunning views of the church.

Stockholm alternative: Tallinn, Estonia

If you're looking for a smaller, more budget-friendly city break in Northern Europe, skip Stockholm and head to Tallinn, Estonia. With a population about half that of Stockholm, Tallinn feels much less congested (except on cruise ship days), yet it boasts numerous historic sites — its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — along with Michelin-starred restaurants like 180° by Matthias Diether and NOA Chef's Hall.

To experience modern Tallinn, make sure to explore Telliskivi Creative City, a repurposed industrial area filled with galleries, shops, and eateries. Don't miss the Junimperium Distillery, Estonia's first distillery open for public tours.

For accommodations, the Schlossle Hotel (starting at $458 per night) offers a touch of luxury — it famously hosted the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2006. For those collecting points, the Hilton Tallinn Park (rates from $101 or 25,000 points per night) is a great choice and was established in 2016.

Bordeaux alternative: Priorat, Spain

While Europe boasts numerous stunning wine regions, the more popular ones can get quite busy, particularly in summer and during harvest season in autumn. Consider exploring the lesser-known Catalan region of Priorat for a unique experience.

Located about two hours by car from Barcelona, this small wine-making region is celebrated for its robust red wines and is one of only two areas in Spain to earn the prestigious DOCa classification (the other being Rioja). While every winery is worth exploring, don't miss a tour of Clos Mogador, led by René Barbier, a key figure in Priorat's resurgence during the late 20th century.

The newly opened Gran Hotel Mas d'en Bruno features 24 suites and starts at $460 or 34,000 Hyatt points per night, nestled amid vineyards. Other excellent accommodations include Terra Domincata Hotel & Winery (from $280 per night) and Trossos del Priorat, a seven-room hotel available for buyouts starting around $1,100 per night.

Amsterdam alternative: Gdansk, Poland

Gdansk has more in common with Amsterdam than you might think. Both were part of the Hanseatic League, engaging in trade during the medieval period, which led to shared goods and architectural influences. After enduring significant destruction in World War II, the city was reconstructed in a manner that honored its Hanseatic heritage, featuring vibrant buildings reminiscent of Amsterdam's canal houses throughout its Old Town.

Gdansk boasts some intriguing attractions, such as the Solidarity Sights and Gdansk Shipyard, which is a museum focused on the national movement that played a key role in ending communism in Poland. Additionally, the Museum of Amber explains why the city is referred to as the global capital of amber, situated within a former fortress complex that also houses a medieval torture chamber.

Many buildings resembling those in Amsterdam now host boutique hotels, including the Holland House Residence Old Town Gdansk (starting at $75 per night), Gotyk House (from $100 per night), and Liberum (starting at $80 per night). For point bookings, consider the Hilton Gdansk (rates begin at $105 or 30,000 points per night).

Alternative to the Greek Isles: The Albanian Riviera

While the Albanian Riviera may not be the hidden gem it once was, it remains a more budget-friendly option compared to many Greek destinations.

For a Mykonos-like vibe complete with beaches and nightlife, head to Ksamil and Dhermi. The La Brisa Boutique Hotel (starting at $189 per night) in Dhermi features a rooftop pool and is close to all the excitement. If you're seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for family vacations or romantic getaways, consider Himare. The elegant Miamar Hotel (from $180 per night) sits right on the beach.

When you want to explore beyond the beach, visit Syri i Kalter, a stunning natural spring, or the coastal city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an Athens-like atmosphere. For a blend of urban life and beach access, Sarande serves as the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera.

Alternative to Berlin: Leipzig, Germany

Just a two-hour drive or a 75-minute train ride from Berlin, Leipzig captures the independent spirit of Berlin with fewer crowds and more affordable prices.

Similar to Berlin, Leipzig boasts a rich musical heritage. It has a significant classical background, being the birthplace of Wagner and home to influential figures like Bach, Mendelssohn, and Mahler. Today, it also has a vibrant electronic and techno scene, best experienced at clubs such as Institut fur Zukunft or Elipamanoke.

History enthusiasts should not miss the Monument to the Battle of the Nations, which commemorates Napoleon's defeat in Leipzig in 1813. Key historical landmarks include St. Nicholas Church (Nikolaikirche) and St. Thomas Church (Thomaskirche), the final resting place of Bach.

For a historic experience, consider the Hotel Furstenhof Leipzig (closed until September, with rates starting at $105 per night), which first opened its doors in 1889. Alternatively, for a more contemporary stay, check out the Westin Leipzig (rates from $108 or 19,500 Marriott points per night).

Alternative to Iceland: The Isle of Skye, Scotland

While the Isle of Skye lacks the active volcanoes found in Iceland, it boasts ancient remnants, such as the rugged Cuillin Hills from a long-dormant range. Alongside the breathtaking volcanic landscapes—don't miss the iconic Old Man of Storr rock formation—you'll discover charming villages that look like they belong on postcards.

Though the Isle of Skye is renowned for outdoor adventures, its culinary offerings are equally impressive. A prime example is Loch Bay on the Waternish Peninsula, which holds a Michelin star. Despite its modest appearance, this fine-dining establishment presents dishes that artfully combine Scottish and French culinary traditions.

Although the Isle of Skye lacks cities, it features a variety of accommodations, including the Kinloch Lodge Hotel & Restaurant (rates from $740 per night), which has been in the owner's family since the 16th century. For a cozier option, consider the boutique Bosville Hotel (rates from $390) in Portree, the island's capital and main village with a population just above 2,000.

Ibiza alternative: Budva, Montenegro

Forgo the crowded Balearic Islands in favor of the less-explored Montenegrin coast, where you'll discover Budva, a nightlife hotspot reminiscent of Ibiza. (Budva is also compared to Dubrovnik, boasting a walled Old Town brimming with charming orange-roofed buildings.)

Budva offers a range of beaches, from the sandy paradise of picturesque Sveti Stefan, where a portion is reserved for guests of the Aman Sveti Stefan (set to reopen soon, though rates are currently unavailable), to the lively Slovenska Plaza with its boardwalk and the secluded shores of Sveti Nikola Island. Some beaches, like Jaz Beach and Ploce Beach, are perfect for nightlife, while the town itself buzzes with nightclubs and resort pool parties.

For breathtaking views, consider staying at the Iberostar Slavija (rates from $270 per night), which features a stunning rooftop infinity pool. If you prefer convenient beach access, the Hotel Montenegro Beach Resort (rates from $140 per night) is a great choice.

Camino de Santiago alternative: The Gudbrandsdalsleden

The famed Camino de Santiago isn't the only pilgrimage path in Europe. In Norway, the St. Olav Ways comprise a network of nine routes leading to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages. Due to Norway's climate, summer is the ideal time to embark on this journey to avoid harsh winter weather.

The primary route, Gudbrandsdalsleden, stretches 400 miles between Oslo and Trondheim, making it Norway's longest designated hiking trail. This well-marked path weaves through cities, alongside lakes, across forests, and ascends to approximately 4,000 feet in the Dovrefjell mountains. Completing the full trek takes about four to five weeks, though it's possible to enjoy sections at your own pace.

Throughout the journey, you'll find plenty of hostels, campsites, and cabins for pilgrims. However, we suggest indulging in a luxury hotel in both Oslo and Trondheim. In Oslo, opt for the elegant 122-room Amerikalinjen (rates starting at $325 per night); in Trondheim, choose the historic Britannia Hotel (rates from $322 per night).