10 destination dupes you need to get to this summer

When considering holiday destinations, there are few things to keep in mind: bucket list, attractions, does it fit your vibe – but also, overtourism. We’re all fans of Euro Summer, Hawaiian beaches, temples in Bali, and visiting all these stunning areas to feed the ‘gram – but sometimes when you’re among big crowds of people who have had the same idea as you, your holiday can become a lot…

Have you considered destination dupes as an occasional alternative to those big bucket list favourites? Holiday spots around the world that are underrated but give you those same same but different perfect vibes. Not only that, but a lot of these destinations are suuuuper underrated, making them more affordable, and you’ll also be supporting underrepresented areas with your tourism dollars. Win win for everyone – here are some of our faves.

In line with Contiki’s sustainability Goal 8 to achieve a 20% increase of itineraries visiting developing regions; in 2024 Contiki added 7 new itineraries visiting developing regions including some of the destination dupes mentioned here! Read more about it in our Impact Report.

Why is overtourism a problem?

Overtourism is a rising issue in many popular tourism destinations like Venice, Barcelona, and Kyoto. As much as tourism may benefit a country and/or local community’s economy, there can also be negative side effects which vary depending on the location itself.

Negative repercussions of overtourism can result in cities becoming too expensive for the locals to reside in, natural environments being ruined or polluted by disrespectful tourists, strain on natural resources, and an increase in carbon emissions. Many countries also report a loss of their cultural identity.

From a traveller’s point of view, overtourism is bad as well as it results in overcrowded attractions which may diminish your overall experience and get in the way of what travel is really about: discovery and connection.

Destination dupes for popular destinations

Many destinations have become increasingly expensive as a result of overtourism and their general popularity. Below is a list of destination dupes that’ll give you the same amazing vibes, but for a fraction of the cost!

1. Albanian Riviera instead of the French Riviera

If you want to swim in crystal waters, enjoy rugged coasts and lots of sailing, all for a more affordable price than glitzy Monaco or adorable Menton, then Albania is going to be the best place for you! The French Riviera is gorgeous and beloved for many reasons, but it can burn a hole through your wallet faster than you can snag a billionaire for yourself. Albania is a perfect dupe.

Vlorë is a city along what is known as the Albanian Riviera and it will not disappoint. Turquoise waters and beach clubs with those pretty parasols lining the pristine sand, a vibrant city with great nightlife, and all the cheap and cheerful seafood you can eat. It’s basically a dream come true.

2. Philippines island hopping instead of Thailand

Thailand is a lifelong love of ours and a superb holiday destination. But more and more, beaches and coral reefs are being closed and damaged, and sacred sites overpopulated. If you want to see something new and just as magical, the Philippines will be the destination dupe for you. Just a little less popular than Thailand, the Philippines still boasts incredible beaches and sunny weather promising a golden glow. Fresh fruit to make your mouth water for days, and lots of friendly locals to meet. 

3. Sweden instead of Canada

If Sweden isn’t on your travel bucket list, get it there. And specifically Torgås – a gorgeous rural area near the border of Norway. It’s tucked away in the heart of the country and it is surrounded by thick forests that hold all the magic of Swedish folklore (keep an eye out for trolls!). The air is fresher than fresh and if you head over in the summer, maybe for Midsummer, you’ll get some spectacular weather. If you want a taste of authentic Swedish life, visit Torgåsgarden (or, better yet, do it with Contiki) for the real deal. 

4. Peru instead of Mexico

If you like Mexico for the incredible history and the gorgeous views of ancient ruins and temples dotting the country all over, then you’re going to love Peru. Obviously, Peru is famous for Machu Picchu, a historic attraction worth the hike to see it; but this area has also become a victim of overtourism. We’re not saying you shouldn’t go – just try to travel more responsibly – but there’s so much more to Peru as well. Head to Huaraz for some deep cultural immersion and day trips to the jaw-dropping Laguna 69 and Pastoruri Glacier. There’s also a world of tradition to discover the Sacred Valley – including weaving and textiles – and Peruvian food is as unique and delicious as Mexican.

5. Flores & Komodo instead of Bali

The great thing about Indonesia is that you can easily island hop the whole place and see every gorgeous nook and cranny. But if you’re short on time and funds, why not give Flores and Komodo a chance instead of Bali? These islands are incredibly unique with the same glittering seas and lush landscapes as their sister, Bali, but with fewer tourists and more untouched lands. The pink sand beaches are a show-stopper and you’ll basically get the whole paradise to yourself. Not to mention the many wildlife viewings you could have…

6. Namibia instead of Morocco

Looking for some desert but been to Morocco before? Namibia, on Africa’s southern coast, is perfect and perhaps one of the most gorgeous destinations in the continent. Namibia’s deserts are vast, but they also flank the ocean creating a harsh divide between two completely opposite worlds. Not only that, but Namibia is perfect for noctourism holidays and stargazing because of the very low light pollution, and the salt flats are a once in a lifetime kind of landscape to witness.

7. Scotland instead of England

Not that Scotland is that underrated, but when people head to the UK, they tend to stick with London and forget about the northern parts of the UK. Where England is filled with vibrant cities throughout, Scotland has a much more rugged countryside vibe. Don’t get us wrong, Glasgow packs a punch when it comes to UK nightlife, but the Highlands and the castles and ruins, and the fluffy cows and that feeling of magic is what often makes people stay.

If you’ve never been to Scotland before, consider this your sign! 

8. Treviso canals instead of Venice canals

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, Italy saw over 70 million tourists in 2024. And understandably, it’s romantic and sunny and filled with history. But cities like Venice are starting to feel the weight of overtourism (and global warming!), so it’s crucial we give it some space to breathe. If it’s the Venetian canals you’re wanting to see, travel to Treviso instead. It’s actually just north of Venice and it is smaller, but Treviso more than makes up for it with its charm, quiet streets, and un-clogged canals.

9. Okinawa instead of Hawaii

Often referred to as the ‘Hawaii of Japan’, Okinawa is a naturally stunning location off the shores of the mainland. It offers coastlines, sunny beaches, and all those classic Japanese temples and shrines that give you a hefty dose of culture. On a good day, you might even spot whale sharks!

There’s so much to do and see in Japan, it can be easy to confine your trip to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. So visiting Okinawa is a great destination dupe to consider if you want to return to Japan and get some island vibes at the same time.

10. Georgia instead of Austria

Austria is a shining emerald of Europe, made up of gorgeous mountains and rolling hills that are alive with the sound of music. 

In recent years, however, Austria has faced increasing amounts of tourists who come flooding the Alps in both summer and winter for the perfect hiking and skiing seasons. So if you want to get the same fresh air filling your lungs and all those hikes in without burdening this corner of the world, Georgia is a perfect choice! 

Not only is Georgia much more affordable, but the countryside is just as jaw-dropping, and you’ll also be able to venture into vibrant cities and grasp the local culture – which is incredibly rich and eye-opening. And, yes, you can ski in Georgia! While you’re there, make sure you try the Khachapuri, a sort of Georgian pizza style that is to die for. 

What destinations should I think about when trying to avoid overtourism?

If you’re trying to avoid destinations suffering from overtourism, you should take into account all the destinations listed above. That being said, each country is very vast, and certain cities and areas within are still okay to travel to. As a general rule, it’s good to look up the specific cities you’re interested in to see how they’re faring.

Here are a few more examples of areas facing overtourism:

• Kyoto, Japan: instead you could visit Takayama and Hakone
• Barcelona, Spain: instead you could visit Valencia and Seville
• Amsterdam, the Netherlands: instead you could visit Rotterdam 
• Florence, Italy: instead you could visit Sienna or Luca
• Santorini, Greece: instead you could visit Crete or Rhodes
• Yosemite National Park, USA: instead you could visit Zion National Park

How to travel more sustainably

Of course, we’re a big believer in the world being your oyster! If you’d like to walk under the Torii gates in Kyoto or glide along the canals of Venice, you should be allowed to. So, here’s how you can do it more responsibly with overtourism concerns in mind:

1. Visit during the off-season

Most destinations have an ‘on-season’ where tourism reaches its peak and for many of the places on this list it’s during the summer. Consider travelling outside of this window instead as this will lessen the strain on the locals, but also have economic benefits for you!

2. Shop and eat local

As mentioned before, tourism is important for local economies as it boosts many businesses, etc. Make sure you’re seeking out the real hidden gems and the real authentic dinner and shopping spots so you know you’re supporting the local people who definitely need and appreciate it more than giant chains. This also has a trickle down effect: local restaurants usually get their produce from local farmers, so the money you give them is passed down into good hands further down the line, creating sustainable solutions.

3. Leave no trace

We hope this goes without saying, but when travelling you should operate on a ‘leave no trace’ principle which basically means you should leave every area you visit exactly the same. No littering, no destroying the landscape, no taking natural souvenirs and disturbing ecosystems, and no interacting with wildlife in the wrong way. This is everyone’s planet, so be sure to leave it the way you’d like to find it.

4. Be respectful

A large concern of areas affected by overtourism is that their culture and ways of living are being erased. To combat this, do some research about your holiday destination first! Learn about the customs so you know how to behave, and when you’re there, do your best to engage.

Travelling more responsibly doesn’t have to be hard or expensive – in fact most of it just comes down to common sense and making mindful decisions. No matter where you end up back-packing on a journey of self-discovery, just make sure you’re doing it in the most responsible and respectful way you can.