6 of Europe’s most touristy destinations - and where to go instead

Let me start by saying, if any of these bucket list places are on your vision board, you kind of want to see them first. There is no point pretending that you will find the exact same kind of place, architecture or features anywhere else. BUT. Once you have visited these 6 spots and saw them for yourself, and would like to find something similar that reminds you of, but without the crowds or the price tags, this blog post is for you. I have collected 6 European destinations that can get pretty touristy, overwhelming and expensive and where to go instead to enjoy a similar atmosphere but at a more relaxed pace. These alternatives to popular European cities and locations may also get more attention soon, so I would recommend checking them out before everybody else finds out!

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Venice, Italy -> Grado, Italy

I have been to Venice twice in the last decade, once in 2016 and again in 2025. The second time I visited I was a little put off by the amount of tourists, and how the city has changed, and unfortunately not for the better. While Venice still has a very unique outlook of course, I think the value you get for your money has decreased here over the years. So, if you want a similar atmosphere, have a look at Grado, which I like to think of as the little sister of Venice. In Grado you will also find some canals, historic streets and stretched beaches to enjoy. I find it to be cheaper and way more relaxed than Venice, even though I visited in August which is considered to be peak season. With its narrow streets and colourful houses, I think its kind of an hidden gem compared to Venice.

Lake Como, Italy -> Kotor Bay, Montenegro

I visited both of them in 2025, and have to say, Kotor Bay is just as impressive with the shores and mountain backdrop as Lake Como is. Funnily enough, I visited both in cloudy weather, and the similarity was incredible. Kotor Bay however had more budget friendly prices, so if you are looking for a Lake Como alternative that is more within the affordable range, add Kotor Bay to your list. 

Dubrovnik, Croatia -> Kotor, Montenegro

Still in Montenegro because it has so much to offer! In case visiting Kotor Bay has not convinced you enough, let me share a little bit about Kotor, the city itself as it is definitely worth your attention. Especially if you loved Dubrovnik and looking for a similar vibe. Unfortunately this coastal town of Croatia got extremely popular and touristy in the last decade which means prices have really gone up. It is beautiful, so still worth a visit, but once you did and enjoyed the atmosphere, Kotor is actually only about 3hrs drive away and offers a very similar view.  You can walk around the Medieval old town with stone walls that resemble the old town of Dubrovnik, but the prices are lower and there aren’t that many crowds.

Vatican City -> Valencia, Spain

Vatican City has to be one of the most touristy destinations not just in Europe but worldwide. And if you love the atmosphere, you may be wondering where to go instead. A lot of people don’t know that the St. Nicolas Church located in the above mentioned, Spanish, coastal city is actually called the “Sistine Chapel of Valencia”. It is kind of a hidden gem, but it is so worth the visit if the Vatican City impressed you with its beautiful frescoes. There are no crowds or long queues to get in, and you can enjoy some quiet and peace here. Combined with Valencia’s relaxed pace, walkable old town, and coastal setting, it offers a more laid-back way to experience sacred art and history.

Florence -> Perugia 

If Florence is getting too touristy for your liking, but you are still craving that tranquil, sun-kissed atmosphere, may I interest you in checking Perugia out! This charming and welcoming city is located a little bit further down South from Florence, but has its own airport making it easily accessible. Budget airlines like Ryanair or Wizz Air offer flights to this destination, often making the capital of the Umbria region of Italy a budget-friendly option. In my opinion, in Italy that the food scenes especially, or even just experiencing the actual la dolce vita, is so much better in lesser known cities and areas these days. Places like Rome and Venice are so overly touristy that you get worse options and service for your money. If you want to see the real Italy, I would recommend you leave from major cities behind.

Barcelona -> Sevilla 

If Barcelona impressed you with its vibrant colours, unique architecture and lively atmosphere, you will love Sevilla just as much. But the rhythm is a bit more relaxed, there aren’t crowds and the prices are much lower too. Barcelona is facing over-tourism these days, so you will add less to that issue and get to enjoy slow wandering, late dinners and a vibrant cultural experience in Sevilla instead. 

How you experience a place can matter just as much as where you go. Instead of rushing through crowded highlights, this guide is designed to help you choose destinations — and alternatives — that invite a slower pace, more space, and a deeper connection with your surroundings.