Destination Dupes: Finding Under-the-Radar Alternatives to Overcrowded Spots
Let’s be honest. The dream of a perfect vacation can sometimes feel like you’re just… well, standing in line. A line for a photo, a line for a museum, a line just to breathe the same air as a thousand other people who read the same top-ten list. It’s exhausting.
That’s where the idea of the “destination dupe” comes in. Think of it like finding a brilliant cover band that plays all your favorite songs in a tiny, intimate venue—no ear-splitting crowds, no $20 beers. You get the same vibe, the same cultural melody, but with space to actually enjoy it. It’s about trading the headline act for an under-the-radar alternative that’s just as compelling, if not more so.
Why the Dupe Trend is More Than Just a Fad
This isn’t just about being a contrarian. Over-tourism is a real issue, straining local infrastructure and ecosystems. By seeking out these less-visited spots, you’re not just saving your own sanity. You’re often spreading tourism dollars to communities that genuinely benefit from them, and you get a more authentic slice of local life in return. It’s a win-win, you know?
Spotlight on Swaps: From Chaotic Classics to Serene Substitutes
Okay, enough theory. Let’s dive into some specific examples. Here’s where the magic of finding a travel alternative really happens.
1. Swap: Amsterdam for Utrecht, Netherlands
Amsterdam’s canals are iconic—and perpetually packed. For a similar Dutch fairytale feel, head to Utrecht. It has the same gorgeous canals, but with a twist: unique wharf cellars now housing cozy cafes and boutiques right at water level. The city has a vibrant university-town energy, a stunning Dom Tower you can climb, and way more bikes than people (somehow). It’s Amsterdam’s charming, quieter cousin.
2. Swap: Santorini for Milos, Greece
Santorini’s caldera views are legendary. They’re also the backdrop for a constant stream of cruise ships and selfie sticks. Milos, another Cycladic gem, offers equally dramatic, otherworldly landscapes—think the lunar-like Sarakiniko Beach or the colorful fishing villages of Klima. The seafood is fresher, the pace is slower, and you’ll feel like you discovered a secret the postcard-makers missed.
3. Swap: Bali for Lombok, Indonesia
Bali’s spiritual vibe and lush rice terraces are a siren call. But parts of the island are buckling under the weight of their own popularity. Just a short hop away, Lombok delivers that same tropical majesty. You’ll find pristine beaches, the majestic Mount Rinjani, and the Gili Islands offshore. The culture is deeply authentic, the surf is incredible, and you can still find a stretch of sand to call your own.
How to Find Your Perfect Destination Dupe
So, how do you actually find these places? It’s part art, part strategy. Here’s a quick guide.
- Follow the Geography, Not Just the Guidebook: Look at a map around your overcrowded target. What other towns are in the same region or share the same coastline? Often, the same beautiful landscape extends far beyond the tourist epicenter.
- Think “Second City” Tourism: Skip the capital or most famous city. Look for a country’s second or third-largest city, or a smaller town known for a specific craft or culture. You get deeper history and fewer crowds.
- Use Social Media… Strategically: Instead of searching #Paris, try niche hashtags or geotags for smaller arrondissements or nearby villages. Travel creators are now touting dupe destinations—follow that breadcrumb trail.
- Embrace the “Similar To” Search: Use tools like Google Flights “Explore” map. Put in your dream (but expensive/overcrowded) destination and see what other locations pop up with similar flight costs. You might be surprised.
What You Gain (And What You Might “Lose”)
Choosing a dupe destination comes with a trade-off, and it’s good to be clear-eyed about it. Let’s break it down.
| What You Gain | What You Might “Miss” |
| More authentic interactions with locals | The instant recognition of a major landmark |
| Lower costs for accommodation & food | The convenience of endless tourist-oriented services |
| The thrill of feeling like an explorer | That specific, famous Instagram photo op |
| Easier, more spontaneous access (no bookings months ahead) | The sheer volume of curated attractions and museums |
The key is in the quotes around “miss.” You’re not really missing it—you’re exchanging it for something different. Something that often sticks with you longer.
Traveling Differently in a Connected World
In fact, the rise of the destination dupe is a quiet rebellion against homogenized travel. It’s a choice to wander a local market instead of a souvenir strip, to stumble upon a family-run *trattoria* instead of queuing for a “famous” one. It’s about letting a place reveal itself to you on its own terms, not through the filter of mass tourism.
And look, this isn’t to say the classic spots aren’t classic for a reason. They’re incredible. But if the thought of navigating those crowds makes you tired before you even pack your bag, there’s a whole world of stunning alternatives waiting. They offer the same spirit, the same beauty, but with room to breathe. The real discovery isn’t just a new place on a map—it’s a new way to travel.