The concept of a dupe — a product with similar traits to a high-end or expensive item but sold at an affordable price — has so far been synonymous with clothing, makeup and even living room furniture. Now, dupes have entered the travel space.
If you’re on a budget, a European vacation may not be in the cards right now, or you may simply prefer to travel closer to home.
Fortunately, North America is full of places to visit that have the feeling of highly coveted destinations without massive price tags. Consider these destination dupes for your next getaway.
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Book NowInstead of the French Countryside, Visit Quebec City, Canada
Known as the “Capital of New France,” it’s no wonder where Quebec City got its European charm. Indeed, up until 1763, Quebec was a French settlement and has since kept up the French ambiance with its beautiful centuries-old architecture, French-inspired cuisine and a French dialect that, to this day, is the primary language.
Don’t miss a visit to the Place Royale neighborhood, a quaint little village that was also featured in the film “Catch Me If You Can,” as well as Montmorency Falls and, of course, the iconic Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac hotel, which sits elegantly atop the hill at the city’s center. The Petit-Champlain district is also the perfect area to take a stroll reminiscent of shopping in France with decorated storefronts and plenty of cafes to rest at while enjoying an espresso and croissant.
Instead of Tuscany, Visit Virginia Wine Country
Although there are more than 4,000 miles between Virginia and Italy’s Tuscan region, the two places have a few unexpected things in common — mainly, breathtaking rolling hills against a rustic countryside backdrop dotted with vineyards. So, not so dissimilar after all.
Virginia’s wine country stretches across the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachia, the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, garnering an enormous breadth of offerings. You don’t have to love wine to enjoy it, though. Anyone who appreciates slow living and unique agricultural experiences will be taken with the area’s rich history, exceptional food and stunning landscapes.
Find your way around using the state’s wine guide as a start. Or settle in one place that has it all, like The Farmhouse at Veritas in Afton for accommodations, dining and more.
Instead of Bavaria, Visit Leavenworth, Washington
Bavarian culture has found a home in Leavenworth, where the sights, sounds and flavors of Germany are front and center. Not only do the town’s buildings resemble those of a German village, but they operate accordingly, too.
The shops and restaurants in Leavenworth all have a semblance of Germanic culture, like The Hat Shop, where you can purchase hats (naturally), plus handcrafted wooden toys and souvenirs. When you’re ready for lunch, you’ll have your work cut out for you as you decide between 36 eateries — most of which serve authentic German classics like schnitzel, pretzels, bratwurst and more.
Visiting Leavenworth at any time of year will grant you a memorable stay. The spring and summer seasons are ideal for hiking the surrounding mountains, biking and horse-drawn carriage rides, while fall and winter are the time to experience Oktoberfest and see the village covered in snow and decorated for the holiday season.
Instead of Barcelona, Visit Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a tapestry of history and charm akin to the never boring and always vibrant Barcelona, Spain. After all, a city covered in Spanish moss and cobblestone streets is bound to emit such an analogous feeling.
Savannah’s old-world allure emanates from its architecture, which — while technically Victorian — signals a compelling resemblance to Barcelona with bright colors, elaborate designs and total grandeur. Like Barcelona’s urban design, Savannah’s historic district is organized in a grid-like layout, inviting visitors to easily explore and gather in the plentiful squares to socialize or relax.
Culinary experiences in Savannah offer a taste of Southern hospitality with a touch of international flair, echoing Barcelona’s own renowned food scene. Create your own tapas experience by sampling all there is to offer. Make sure to visit the city’s most beloved gems like the Spanish-style Mercer Williams House Museum and iconic Forsyth Park.
Instead of Denmark, Visit Solvang, California
Sitting just north of Santa Barbara, California, Solvang is a picture-perfect facsimile of a quaint Danish village. Founded by three Danish immigrants in 1911, Solvang has since become known as the “Danish Capital of America” for not just its windmills and half-timbered buildings, but its charming glimpse into true Danish culture.
Visiting Solvang allows you to immerse yourself in some of the best Danish traditions, starting with its food. From smorrebrod (open-faced sandwiches; try The Bit O’Denmark’s offerings) to flodeboller (chocolate-coated cream puffs), there are so many newfound favorites to be discovered.
Mirroring the magic of its European counterpart, Solvang has plenty of beauty to behold and things to see and do, from cycling through the rolling hills of the surrounding Santa Ynez Valley to shopping for authentic Danish treasures and even getting to see the Little Mermaid statue in the center of town that pays homage to the original statue in Copenhagen.
Plan your next trip with a AAA travel advisor.
Which of these European destination dupes would you like to visit most?
Featured image: Place Royale in Quebec City.
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Instead of…. just Canada and the Unites States, try the third member of the North American trilogy – Mexico! Morelia, Mexico is the most European looking city in North America, and if you include Mexico you will see countless examples of Spanish architecture. There are also many cities in Mexico with international food choices.